Operation Manual

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15. The rear shock
Full suspension (rear shock absorption)
Full suspension bikes are equipped not only
with a suspension fork but also with mov-
able rear stays which are sprung and shock-
damped by a shock absorber. Shock absorp-
tion is afforded by a steel or air spring, and
damping usually by oil.
15.01 Notes on the sitting position
Full-suspension bikes yield a little when you
sit on the saddle (sag). This can cause the
saddle to tilt a little backwards, an effect that
should be taken into account when adjusting
the tilt of the saddle. If you have trouble sit-
ting, try lowering the nose of the saddle a
little relative to the usual position.
Furthermore, full-suspension bikes have a
markedly greater ground clearance than
bikes without suspension. If the saddle is
adjusted to its proper height, you will not be
able to reach the floor with your feet. Set the
saddle a little lower to begin with and prac-
tise getting on and off the saddle.
If you are not used to it, you may
topple over with the bike due to the
higher saddle height. Therefore practise
getting on and off the saddle and lower the
saddle a little, if necessary.