Setting an A5-RR1
- Thread starter bret
- Start date
billyk
Guru
My read is that each of us has a different way we like the bike to feel. So there won’t be one “right” set of pressures. Your starting points are fine.
I like stiffer, so mine is set higher (but it’s been months and probably 1000s of miles and I can’t remember what settings I used!). I usually glance at it every now and then, and like to see the indicator o-ring about halfway down after a bumpy ride (Seattle has crappy streets).
So ride it for a while, then try it a bit stiffer, and a bit softer. This is easier if you leave the Main valve accessible. (As mentioned above, on 2019 (1st gen) Q45s you can’t have both valves exposed and pumpable at the same time … still true now?). I haven’t messed very much with the NP pressure.
I just installed the shock today. It's 422g lighter than the original. That's definitely a positive.
@billyk now I see why you have to install the shock with MP down and not able to access the nozzle unless you unscrew the bottom bolt. Without the luggage rack, it can be installed MP up, and both nozzles can be accessed. With the rack arm in the way, it has to be installed upside down. Urr!!
billyk
Guru
I’m pretty sure it doesn’t matter which way it’s installed. That is, there’s no “upside down”.
Oh I know. I am just annoyed that the MP nozzle can't be accessed at that position without taking off the bolt. :-(
Black Hawk Down
Senior Rookie
I installed a Kind Shock KS A5-RR1 Dual Air Rear Shock 165x40mm on my q45 and it doesn't seem to be working. I pumped up the MP to 150 lbs and emptied the NP to zero pressure. I can push the seat down with my hands and compress the shock to the full range of motion. I assume its a bad shock at this point unless someone out here can explain this behavior. Unfortunately, I bought it on Amazon and it's 3 days past it's 30 day return period. 80 bucks, poof.
gybemeister
New Member
I installed the KS AR-551 AIRSHOCK and its way too soft despite pumping main chamber to 150. I weigh 180 fully kitted. Any advice?
gybemeister
New Member
I'm having same problem on the same shock and bike. Am returning the shock unless someone has a fix or Dx, etc.
I guess something must have changed from when I bought it. I pump mine to 150psi. I weigh 170lb. It barely compresses as in it's really stiff.
gybemeister
New Member
Ill try zeroing the NP . thanks
gybemeister
New Member
On a different subject anyone ridden single track with the BMX wheel and knobby setup? Better, anyone ridden the trails at McDowell Mountain near Fountain Hills AZ?
Black Hawk Down
Senior Rookie
Hi. I installed the following shock several months ago and it's working beautifully on my Q45. I couldn't be happier.
I got the 165 mm, 2000 lb version. What stiffness you need will depend on your weight. I weigh about 230 lbs. If it doesn't work for you, it's returnable on amazon.
kizarmynot
Member
I installed the A5-RR1 shock but can't get any movement even with both MP and NP set to 0, which also results in not being able to reinstall the rear wheel.
Any suggestions? This is the first time working with a shock so I want to make sure I'm not making a rookie mistake before returning it.
Any suggestions? This is the first time working with a shock so I want to make sure I'm not making a rookie mistake before returning it.
Last edited:
Black Hawk Down
Senior Rookie
Return it and install this shock:
It's heaver than the air shock but works like a dream.
kizarmynot
Member
Thanks for the response and alternative product. I realize I made a rookie mistake - ordered the wrong size (too short). I think I'll try a replacement and if that doesn't work go with the alternative.
Thanks again,
Tony
kizarmynot
Member
Got a chance to install the air shock, and like several others it is way too soft. I tested various main pressure settings up to 180 psi and even there the rear sagged too much (I weigh 215). I'll give the coil shock that @Black Hawk Down suggested a try next.
Sweet, you're getting close! When I set up my rear shock, I started by checking the recommended PSI range from the manufacturer for both MP and NP. For MP, it controls the overall firmness, while NP adjusts the feel and support. I started in the middle of the recommended range, took it for a ride, and then made small tweaks depending on how it felt on the trail. It can take a couple of tries to dial it in perfectly, but once it's there, it makes a big difference in comfort and performance.
