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Changing rear shock
NB: Originally posted elsewhere on the Global Riders Network and appears via syndication.
Hi there,
Pretty new to this, I have a cannondale prophet and my rear shock is bottomed out just sitting on it
I am a big guy, 6"3 and 117kg. When I get out of the saddle to put the power down it just bounces around.
I have taken it to my local bike shop to gas but he reckons it's gassed out.
I can't find a replacement HD or coil over replacement.
Any ideas other than hard tail?
Cheers
Robbie
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Sorry guys I've asked this before but couldn't find it.
Just found it now. Sorry again
robbie
what shock is it?
what year
make/model. will get a better answer
have u got a shock pump?
has shock ever been serviced since you bought the bike
pm me and i will call u if u leave ur number
Quote 'I have taken it to my local bike shop to gas but he reckons it's gassed out.'
What does this even mean? If he's referring to the internal nitrogen charge, how could he even tell that there is a problem of some sort that relates to it?
There are loads of reasons why a bike bounces around when pedaled and it doesn't automatically mean there's a crisis. It's often poor set up.
As Jack has requested, identify the shock and age and service history for a more accurate answer.
However, just about any shock can be rebuilt. A Fifth Element shock may not be, but Fox is almost always rebuildable and will yield good results. As for a replacement, I'd say the size req'd is pretty common and thus, widely available.
Sounds like it just needs a seal service. It's getting stuck down because the negative air spring seal is leaking. Common issue across a number of shock brands.
If you haven't already, buy a shock pump!
From memory, The Prophets had a Manitou Swinger 3-way on most models? Service parts for them are still available if you hunt around and your local bike shop (not the first one - sounds like a git) should be able to help.
Failing that, a little on line research should yield you the eye-to-eye length and shock stroke, and you can then put a more current Fox shock on in its place. You may need help from the shop to source the alloy bushings to suit, but I think the Manitou ones may well fit.
The platform on the Swinger is adjusted by changing the air pressure on the small end - look up the manual on the web. I ran mine at 70-75% of the main chamber. It still bobbed when pedalling out of the saddle (and most shocks do) but seated pedalling was excellent.
If it's already a Fox, the seal parts haven't changed in over 10 years and are readily available. There are videos on BoobTube and replacement is an easy DIY project if you have a vice on your bench in the garage. The rubber strap wrench to unscrew the air can is less than $15 from AutoOne or Bunnings.
"I have taken it to my local bike shop to gas but he reckons it's gassed out".
Pretty sure that's your issue, you've been palmed off.
would the rear shock be a Swinger X3?