Measuring Sag

[peewee2472]

Just want to confirm with techies out there that when I measure sag, should I put the lever on my rear shock on propedal or open? I have the Fox Triad installed on the rear...

I put it on open and gear up and get on the bike, I have a SAG measuring tool that came with the bike that I got so I pretty much go with that.

Am I doing it right?

Thanks in advance!

[CalEpic]

I don't think it will matter whether the pro pedal lever is on or not but would measure with it open if you're concerned. I'm not sure what kind of measuring tool your shock came with but most just use an o ring on the shaft.

C

[thephat]

Measure it open.

[slowSSer]

this brings up another question: what's a good way to set sag on all full-squish bikes? two people and a measuring tape?

other questions:

what's the recommended sag for bikes these days? (i know, multi-part answer- depends on the bike- XC, AM, Freeride, DH, Homer, IH freak, etc...)

does sag differ per travel, use, or wheel size? for example, does a 100mm rear travel 26" wheeled bike have different sag than a 29er full squish with the same travel?

does suspension design affect the amount of sag?

things to ponder.

[Cableguy]

Make sure the Propedal is open. It won't work if you have it on. 20-25% for XC, 30% for All Mountain, is the general rule of thumb. But you need to set it where it makes you happy. Tight or plush, without blowing through all your travel. Don't know too much about 29'ers.

Make sure you keep an eye on the rubber ring that is on the fork or shock. You should also use this to measure your sag. You should be using as much travel as you can, but with some left just in case you hit a big drop. If your shock/fork doesn't have a rubber ring/indicator, you can put on a zip tie and keep it there.

[RacinJason]

To set the sag correctly you must have either someone to hold you or something to hold on to. Most shocks have an O'ring. Step over the top tube and push the o ring up against the shock seal. Then step onto the peddles without sitting on the seat . If you sit on the seat to set the sag you will be putting additional leverage on the shock. It will also make the ride seem harsh when on the pedals. Your sag should be set while in the balanced on the pedals position.
You might have to hold onto the wall or a friend to do this.
Your O ring should be at around 30 percent of your total shock stroke.
This apply s to many bikes but not all. Some bikes need to be farther into the shock stroke to work properly . Your pro pedal should be turned off.
If you add 20 lbs to your over all weight you should take that into consideration when setting you sag. The 30% sag should be with full gear on.

[JOx2]

Does this applies to front suspension too? i noticed the front fork is somewhat based on rider's weight.

[RacinJason]

The forks have a sweet spot. Sometime you can get the info online it really depends on what forks you are setting up. Air sprung ? coil sprung ? Brand , Model.
The air forks set up a lot like the rear end. Look up your fork to find the sweet spot. Use the same technique as the rear end. Balance on the pedals and set the sag to the recommended sag in the manual.
You can use a Zip tie to mark it. Its best to cut it off when done in case the seal bottoms out on it.
I leave mine on because mine can't hit.

Originally Posted by JOx2

Does this applies to front suspension too? i noticed the front fork is somewhat bades on rider's weight.