1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the DNM DV22AR Damping 2 System Mountain Bike Rear Shock. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new rear shock. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Image 1: The DNM DV22AR Mountain Bike Rear Shock, featuring a black coil spring and red adjustment knob.
2. Product Overview and Features
The DNM DV22AR is a high-performance coil spring rear shock designed for mountain bikes, suitable for XC (Cross Country) and AM (All Mountain) riding styles. It features a robust construction and adjustable damping to enhance your riding experience.
- Spring Rate: 1500 lbs, providing firm support for various rider weights and terrains.
- Damping System: 2-system adjustable damping, including Rebound and Preload.
- Damper Shaft: Hard chromed shock Ø 10 mm (0.39 inch) shaft for durability and smooth operation.
- Shock Body: Constructed from dark hard-anodized AL-6061 aluminum alloy for strength and corrosion resistance.
- Eye-to-Eye Length: 125 mm (4.9 inch), ensuring compatibility with frames designed for this specific length.
- Bushings: Top and bottom bushing sizes are 8mm x 24mm. Includes extra bushing and hardware (8mm x 50mm length) for versatile installation.
3. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with bicycle components. Improper installation or adjustment can lead to serious injury or product damage.
- Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications.
- If you are unsure about any installation or adjustment procedure, consult a professional bicycle mechanic.
- Regularly inspect the shock for any signs of damage, wear, or leaks before each ride.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the shock unit beyond what is described in this manual. Internal components are under high pressure.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your rear shock. This shock is designed for a 125mm eye-to-eye length.
4.1 Required Tools
- Hex keys (appropriate sizes for your bike's shock bolts)
- Torque wrench
- Grease (for bolts and bushings)
4.2 Installation Steps
- Prepare the Frame: Ensure the shock mounting points on your bicycle frame are clean and free of debris.
- Bushing Installation: The shock comes with pre-installed 8mm x 24mm bushings. Additional hardware, including an 8mm x 50mm length bushing, is provided for compatibility. Select the appropriate bushings and hardware for your frame.
Image 2: Included bushings and hardware for the DNM DV22AR shock, showing various sizes for installation flexibility.
- Mount the Shock: Carefully align the shock with the frame's mounting points. Insert the mounting bolts through the frame, bushings, and shock eyelets.
Image 3: Close-up view of the shock's eyelet with dimensions, indicating an 8mm inner diameter and 24mm width for the bushing.
- Tighten Bolts: Hand-tighten the bolts, then use a torque wrench to tighten them to your bicycle frame manufacturer's specifications. Do not overtighten.
- Check Clearance: Cycle the suspension through its full travel to ensure there is no interference with the frame or other components.
Image 4: The DNM DV22AR rear shock properly installed on a mountain bike frame, showcasing its integration with the suspension linkage.
5. Operating Instructions: Adjustments
The DV22AR shock offers two primary adjustments: Rebound and Preload. These adjustments allow you to fine-tune the shock's performance to your riding style and terrain.
5.1 Rebound Adjustment
The rebound adjustment controls the speed at which the shock extends after compression. A slower rebound (more damping) prevents the shock from springing back too quickly, which can cause the wheel to lose contact with the ground. A faster rebound (less damping) allows the shock to extend more quickly, which can be beneficial on rapidly successive bumps.
- Adjusting: Locate the red knob at the top eyelet of the shock. Turning the knob clockwise ('Slow') increases rebound damping, making the shock extend slower. Turning it counter-clockwise ('Fast') decreases rebound damping, making the shock extend faster.
- Recommendation: Start with a middle setting and adjust incrementally. For general trail riding, a slightly slower rebound is often preferred for better control.
Image 5: A hand turning the red rebound adjustment knob on the DNM DV22AR rear shock, showing the 'Slow' and 'Fast' indicators.
5.2 Preload Adjustment
Preload refers to the initial compression of the coil spring. Adjusting preload changes the sag (how much the suspension compresses under the rider's weight) and can affect the shock's sensitivity to small bumps.
- Adjusting: The preload is adjusted by turning the threaded collar at the base of the coil spring. Turning the collar clockwise compresses the spring further, increasing preload. Turning it counter-clockwise reduces preload.
- Recommendation: Adjust preload to achieve the desired sag for your weight and riding style. Typically, 20-30% sag is a good starting point for mountain biking. Do not exceed two full turns of preload from the point where the spring is just snug against the collar.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance will ensure the longevity and consistent performance of your DNM DV22AR rear shock.
- Cleaning: After each ride, especially in wet or muddy conditions, clean the shock body and shaft with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid high-pressure washers directly on seals.
- Inspection: Periodically check the shock for any signs of damage, such as scratches on the damper shaft, cracks in the spring, or leaks around the seals. Inspect mounting bolts for tightness.
- Lubrication: Apply a small amount of suspension-specific lubricant to the damper shaft and seals to keep them supple and reduce friction.
- Service Intervals: For internal servicing, it is recommended to consult a professional bicycle suspension service center.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your rear shock.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor damping performance | Incorrect rebound setting, internal issue | Adjust rebound knob. If issue persists, seek professional service. |
| Shock feels too stiff/soft | Incorrect preload setting, incorrect spring rate for rider weight | Adjust preload. Consider a different spring rate if necessary. |
| Unusual noises (creaking, clunking) | Loose mounting bolts, worn bushings, internal issue | Check and tighten mounting bolts. Inspect bushings for wear. If noise continues, professional inspection is recommended. |
| Oil leakage | Damaged seals, internal component failure | Stop using the shock immediately and seek professional service. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | DNM |
| Model | DV22AR-125 |
| Spring Rate | 1500 lbs |
| Damping | 2-system (Rebound / Preload) |
| Eye-to-Eye Length | 125 mm (4.9 inch) |
| Damper Shaft Diameter | Ø 10 mm (0.39 inch), Hard Chromed |
| Shock Body Material | AL-6061 Aluminum Alloy, Dark Hard-Anodized |
| Bushing Sizes (Top/Bottom) | 8mm x 24mm |
| Item Weight | 1.04 pounds (approx.) |
| Riding Style | XC / AM |
9. Warranty and Support
DNM stands behind the quality of its products.
9.1 Lifetime Warranty
This DNM DV22AR Rear Shock comes with a Lifetime Warranty, reflecting our confidence in its quality and durability. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty inquiries, or service, please contact DNM customer support through the official channels provided at the point of purchase or on the DNM website. When contacting support, please have your product model (DV22AR-125) and proof of purchase readily available.