Samedi 28.4

Adjusting the SAG of the shock absorber is the first and most essential adjustment to make on an MTB! It’s also one of the easiest measurements to get wrong… so here’s how to do it:

If you’re alone, set up near a wall (it’ll help you balance at the start and end). Ideally, though, it’s best to have two people for this operation.
Of course, you need to be fully equipped, just as if you were heading out for a ride, so the total weight reflects real riding conditions.

1. Inflate the shock absorber to the base pressure corresponding to your weight. With Moustache bikes, it’s simple: it’s approximately your weight multiplied by 2 (to get the equivalent in PSI). So, if you weigh 75 kg × 2 = 150 PSI. Easy ;-{D. Make sure the shock is in the open position when measuring SAG!

2. Get on your bike, with the saddle lowered (if you have a dropper post). Either hold onto the wall or have someone assist you. At this point, you’ve put much more pressure on the suspension than just your body weight. Sit down on the saddle and then raise it to your usual pedaling position.

3. Release the brakes, which might lock the suspension, and gently bounce the handlebars to ensure the suspension settles correctly into the SAG position for your weight.

Now comes the tricky part, where your balancing skills will shine!

• If you have someone to assist you, they can simply check where the SAG indicator ring aligns with the measurement marker on the frame. Done!

• If you’re alone, carefully slide the indicator ring up against the shock body without making the suspension move, then carefully dismount using the wall for support (without applying any extra pressure, as this could distort the measurement). Not easy, we know… but it’s doable!

Once off the bike, and if you’re confident the measurement wasn’t altered, check where the ring aligns with the SAG marker.

• If there’s less SAG than recommended, release some air with the pump.

• If there’s too much SAG, add more air.

You’ll find adjustment tips in your Moustache user manual.