2
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
DB COIL
DB AIR
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2Safety
3 Product Anatomy Chart - DBcoil
4 Product Highlights - DBcoil
5 Installation - DBcoil
6 Frame and Clearance - DBcoil
7 Spring Selection & Installation - DBcoil
8 Sag Adjustment - DBcoil
11 Product Anatomy Chart - DB air
12 Product Highlights - DB air
13 Installation - DB air
14 Frame and Clearance - DB air
15 Sag Adjustment - DB air
17 Tuning Adjustments
20 Tuning Tips
24 Service, Maintenance and Cleaning
26 Warranty
Congratulations on the purchase of your Cane Creek Double Barrel rear shock. The
Double Barrel brings revolutionary suspension technology to the bicycle market. Based
on a foundation of precision quality and cutting-edge innovation, the DBcoil and DBair
represent the pinnacle of high-performance suspension systems. Cane Creek technology offers the broadest adjustment range available giving you the control to tune the
shock your way for your bike.
This owner’s manual is your reference guide to understanding and tuning your Double
Barrel rear shock. It also provides important information about proper installation,
set-up and maintenance of your shock. If you have questions, visit canecreek.com or
contact the Cane Creek Customer Service Team who is readily available to assist you.
Register your shock online at The Owners Lounge
www.canecreek.com/products/suspension/the-lounge
SAFETY
2
The rear shock is an important part of your bike. Before installing and using your new
rear shock, carefully read this owner’s manual to learn the correct installation and
adjustment procedures of the shock. Improperly installed and/or adjusted shocks can
cause serious harm or death and may severely damage your bike.
WARNING: A broken or malfunctioning shock may cause loss of vehicle control
and result in SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. If the shock ever loses oil, air or makes
unusual noises, stop riding and have the shock inspected by a Cane Creek Authorized
Suspension Service Center or call the Cane Creek Customer Service Team.
WARNING: Modification, improper service or use of aftermarket replacement
parts voids the warranty and may cause the shock to malfunction, resulting in loss of
vehicle control and SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. Do not modify your bike frame or
shock. Use only genuine Cane Creek Double Barrel parts.
Follow service maintenance recommendations. Shock service should be performed by
Cane Creek Cycling Components or a Cane Creek Authorized Suspension Service
Center. Visit www.canecreek.com or contact us at 800-234-2725 to locate a Cane
Creek Authorized Suspension Service Center
WARNING: Cane Creek rear shocks contain a nitrogen charge in the reservoir.
Opening a nitrogen pressurized shock is dangerous and can result in SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. The nitrogen charged portion of the shock should only be opened
by a Cane Creek Authorized Suspension Service Center.
WARNING: Cane Creek rear shocks are manufactured exclusively for the bike
model that they were ordered for. Switching units between different bikes may not only decrease performance but might also cause damage to the bike and can result in SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH. Always contact Cane Creek or Cane Creek Authorized Suspension
Service Center to verify compatibility before switching units from one bike to another.
3
PRODUCT ANATOMY CHART: DBcoil
Shock eyelet
Cylinder Head
Compression
& Rebound
Adjusters
Spring
Adjustment Nut
Shock
Reservoir
Shaft
Spring
Spring Clip
End Eyelet
4
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS: DBcoil
Four-way independent adjustability
Twin-tube damping technology
Precision-machined parts for maximum
performance and reliability
8mm shaft provides unparalleled
small-bump sensitivity.
5
INSTALLATION: DBcoil
Mounting Hardware – Your Cane Creek rear shock is equipped with exclusive
Norglide® bushings and comes with mounting hardware specific to your
bike’s frame specifications.
2 Slide spacers provided by Cane
1 Press axle into shock eyelet
Creek over axle in the order below.
and end eyelet.
Axle
3 Slide assembly from step 2 into the
bracket on bike and insert bolt and tighten.
Quad-ring
Spacers. Vary by frame.
Outer spacer w/ O-Ring
4 Make sure bolt is secure and no
side-to-side play exists.
FRAME AND SHOCK CLEARANCE: DBcoil
1 Remove spring from the shock (see
instructions on next page).
3 Reinstall the spring and attach
shock to frame.
2 Carefully cycle shock through
full travel checking for free movement
without restriction.
6
7
SPRING SELECTION AND INSTALLATION: DBcoil
Spring Selection
Selecting the appropriate spring rate is an important variable in achieving optimal
set-up of the DBcoil. Your ideal spring rate will be based on rider weight, frame design,
and riding style. (See our online calculator at canecreek.com or call the Cane Creek
Service Team).
Spring Removal and Installation
To remove the spring, turn the Spring Adjustment Nut to remove all preload (the spring
should become loose). Push down on the spring clip and slide it off the shock. Once
the clip is removed, slide the spring off the shock. Certain frames require longer
mounting hardware, it may be necessary to remove the mounting hardware from the
end eyelet before the spring can be removed.
180 degrees apart
WARNING: Always make sure the end of the spring’s coil is aligned on the
opposite side of the slot in the spring clip. An improperly oriented spring can fail prematurely, causing loss of vehicle control and SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SAG ADJUSTMENT: DBcoil
8
Spring preload is the compression applied to the spring by the Spring Adjustment
Nut. The preload adjustment is used to fine-tune the optimal amount of sag to achieve
proper ride height.
Measuring and Setting Sag
To achieve the best performance from your Double Barrel rear shock, the proper setting
of sag is vitally important. As a starting point, we recommend a sag setting equal to
30% of available travel unless the frame manufacturer recommends otherwise.
Sag is part of shock tuning, so you should experiment and vary your sag percentage to
better suit your riding style and personal preferences. For example, if your style is more
downhill, you can increase your sag percentage (by reducing preload) to add some plushness to your suspension. If your style is more all-mountain/XC, you can decrease your sag
percentage (by increasing preload) to firm up your suspension.
To Measure Sag
1 - Make sure that you are on a level surface.
With the rear wheel off the ground, measure
the length of your shock from eye-to-eye and
record this measurement.
2 - Dressed to ride (including filled hydration
bag, if you use one), position your bike next
to a wall or table to support yourself. Mount
your bicycle and assume your normal riding
position. Measure the shock length again
from eye-to-eye. You may need someone
to assist in this measurement. Record this
measurement.
SAG ADJUSTMENT: DBcoil
3 - The difference between the two measurements is the sag.
%Sag = [(Free shock length - Weighted
Length) ÷ Shock Stroke] x 100
Free Shock length: Measured in Step 1.
Weighted Length: Measured in Step 2.
Shock Stroke: Stroke is indicated on the
spring that came with your DBcoil. If you
are unsure of your shock’s travel, visit
canecreek.com or contact the Cane Creek
Customer Service Team.
Increasing Spring Preload
To increase the preload on your spring,
turn the Spring Adjustment Nut clockwise.
Increasing the preload will increase the
ride height and reduce sag. This will result
in a more responsive ride. Be careful not
to apply too much preload (not more than
6 turns of the Spring Adjustment Nut) as
this can cause “coil binding”, which can
damage the spring, the shock, and can be
dangerous for the rider.
9
SAG ADJUSTMENT: DBcoil
10
Reducing Spring Preload
To reduce the preload on your spring, turn
the Spring Adjustment Nut counter-clockwise. Reducing the preload will decrease
the ride height and increase sag. This will
result in a more plush ride. Do not reduce
spring preload below 1 turn. The shock
requires some spring preload to rebound
properly.
IMPORTANT
If more than 6 turns preload is needed to achieve proper sag, you will need to change
to a stiffer (higher rate) spring. If less than 1 turn of preload is needed to achieve
proper sag, you will need to change to a lower spring rate.
For more information on adjusting your Spring Preload, view our suspension instructional videos online at canecreek.com.
11
PRODUCT ANATOMY CHART: DBair
Shock Eyelet
Cylinder Head
Compression &
Rebound Adjusters
Shock
Reservoir
Air Valve Cap
Air Valve
Volume
Adjustment Spacer
Air Can
End Eyelet
12
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS: DBair
Twin-tube damping for unparalleled
small bump sensitivity and
adjustability
F
d
Air-spring tuned to match the Double
Barrel damping capability
Precision-machined parts for
maximum performance and reliability
Auto-adjust negative air spring
13
INSTALLATION: DBair
Mounting Hardware – Your Cane Creek rear shock is equipped with exclusive
Norglide® bushings and comes with mounting hardware specific to your
bike’s frame specifications.
2 Slide spacers provided by Cane
1 Press axle into shock eyelet
Creek over axle in the order below.
and end eyelet.
Axle
3 Slide assembly from step 2 into the
bracket on bike and insert bolt and tighten.
Quad-ring
Spacers. Vary by frame.
Outer spacer w/ O-Ring
4 Make sure bolt is secure and no
side-to-side play exists.
CHECK FRAME AND SHOCK CLEARANCE: DBair
14
1 Remove air from DBair by pressing
air valve. The shock must be deflated to
rotate the Air Can.
2 The Air Valve must clear the shock
reservoir and any part of the frame. Using
a rubber strap wrench, rotate the Air Can
to adjust the Air Valve position.
3 Carefully cycle shock through full travel
checking for movement without restriction.
4 Refill shock to desired air pressure.
Reinstall Air Valve cap.
SAG ADJUSTMENT: DBair
15
Air spring preload is the amount of air pressure in the air chamber of the shock. The
preload adjustment is used to fine-tune the optimal amount of sag to achieve the
proper ride height.
Measuring and Setting Sag
To achieve the best performance from your Double Barrel rear shock, the proper setting
of sag is vitally important. As a starting point, we recommend a sag setting equal to
30% of available travel.
Sag is part of shock tuning, so you should experiment and vary your sag percentage to
better suit your riding style and personal preferences. For example, if your style is more
downhill, you can increase your sag percentage (by reducing air pressure) to add some
plushness to your suspension. If your style is more all-mountain/XC, you can decrease your
sag percentage (by increasing air pressure) to firm up your suspension.
To Measure/Set Sag
1 - Attach high pressure shock pump to
air valve and Inflate to ~50-75psi.
2 - Slowly cycle the shock. This will
charge the negative air chamber.
SAG ADJUSTMENT: DBair
3 - Inflate shock to starting pressure,
remove air pump. Slide travel indicating
O-ring against air can.
16
4 - On a level surface, position your
bike next to a wall or table to support
yourself. Mount your bicycle and assume
your normal riding position. Dismount
bicycle and measure distance travel
indicating O-ring has moved. This measurement is your sag
O-Ring
O-Ring
5 - Sag = Distance from air can to O-ring
Shock stroke = If you are unsure of your shock’s travel, visit canecreek.com or contact
the Cane Creek Customer Service Team.
%Sag = (Sag ÷ Shock Stroke] x 100.
Make sure the shock pump is NOT connected to the DBair when measuring sag.
When the proper sag value is reached, record the pressure required to achieve this sag
value to make setup faster in the future.
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS: DBcoil | DBair
17
Unique to bike suspension, the Double Barrel’s Twin-Tube Technology with 4-Way
Independent Adjustment isolates both high-speed and low-speed rebound and
compression circuits. This proprietary design allows for rider-tuned suspension, by
providing an unsurpassed range of damper adjustment by simply turning external
adjusters. Because these adjusters act completely independent of one another, adjustment of one will not affect the performance of another. Thus we invite you to DEFINE
YOUR GREAT.
Low-Speed Compression (LSC)
Low-Speed Compression (LSC) controls traction and chassis stabilization. LSC
adjustment is used to eliminate pedal induced “bob”, influences small bump sensitivity,
and affects how the bike will react to weight changes. The Double Barrel decouples
the LSC from the HSC (see HSC) so that the shock can address the aforementioned
issues while still feeling supple and bottomless.
To increase the low-speed compression turn the LSC adjuster
clockwise (screw in).
To reduce the low-speed compression damping, turn the LSC
adjuster counterclockwise (unscrew).
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS: DBcoil | DBair
High-Speed
Compression (HSC)
Low-Speed
Compression (LSC)
18
High-Speed
Rebound (HSR)
Low-Speed
Rebound (LSR)
Low-Speed Rebound (LSR)
Low-Speed Rebound (LSR) works with LSC to stabilize the chassis and manage traction. It is similar to the single rebound adjuster on most other rear shocks. Rider-tuned
LSR adjustment (combined with LSC) ensures maximum traction everywhere from
technical climbs, high-speed chatter, off-camber corners, to braking in stutter bumps.
To increase low-speed rebound, turn the LSR adjuster
clockwise (screw in).
To reduce the low-speed rebound, turn the LSR adjuster
counterclockwise (unscrew).
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS: DBcoil | DBair
19
High-Speed Compression (HSC)
High-Speed Compression (HSC) is critical to absorbing energy from high impact
forces, such as square edge hits and harsh landings. When set properly, the highspeed compression (HSC) circuit allows the wheel to effectively absorb all impacts
without harshly bottoming out or using too much travel.
To increase high-speed compression, turn the HSC adjuster clockwise (screw in).
To reduce high-speed compression, turn the HSC adjuster
counterclockwise (unscrew).
High-Speed Rebound (HSR)
An adjustment unique to the Double Barrel, High-Speed Rebound (HSR) enables a
bike to recover quickly from deep in suspension travel while enabling controlled takeoffs from jump faces. By giving the rider independent control of HSR and LSR, bucking
(a high shaft-speed problem) can be eliminated while allowing the shock to recover
quickly to prevent packing up (a low shaft-speed problem).
To increase high-speed rebound, turn the HSR adjuster clockwise (screw in).
To reduce high-speed rebound, turn the HSR adjuster counterclockwise
(unscrew).
Note: when turning HSC the LSC adjuster will turn with HSC adjuster, DO NOT
hold the LSC adjuster when turning the HSC adjuster.
20
TUNING TIPS: DBcoil | DBair
Your Double Barrel has arrived preset from the factory, though for most riders these
settings are only a starting point. Some bike-specific tuning suggestions are available
at www.canecreek.com and/or are shown on the Double Barrel hang tag that came
with your bike. Aftermarket shocks and shocks for bikes that do not yet have hang tags
are set from the factory as follows:
HSC [HIGH SPEED COMPRESSION]
PLUSH
0 TURNS
2
4
RESITS
BOTTOMING
25
PEDAL
EFFICIENCY
TURNS
LSC [LOW SPEED COMPRESSION]
SUPPLE
0 CLICKS
12
CLICKS
HSR [HIGH SPEED REBOUND]
LIVELY POP
0
2
4
G-OUT
CONTROL
LSR [LOW SPEED REBOUND]
PLUSH
0 CLICKS
12
CLICKS
25
FIRM
TUNING TIPS: DBcoil | DBair
21
To enjoy the full benefits of your Double Barrel shock, it is important that your shock is
tuned specifically to your bike and riding style. The Symptoms section below will help
you find your own ideal settings to Define Your Great. As a general rule, use the following order to adjust your shock:
1 Verify correct sag. For additional assistance, see the relevant sections
for Adjusting Sag.
2 On a familiar trail, fine tune Low-Speed Compression (LSC) and Low-Speed Rebound (LSR) to suit your preferences for resistance to pedaling induced chassis
motion and traction. For additional assistance, see the Symptoms listed.
3 Adjust High-Speed Compression (HSC) so that all the travel is occasionally
used, but no harsh bottom out is felt. For additional assistance, see the
Symptoms listed.
4 Adjust High-Speed Rebound (HSR) to prevent bucking. For additional
assistance, see the Symptoms listed.
No shock adjustments should be made without first setting sag properly.
Failure to do so will lead to incorrect damper adjustments.
TUNING TIPS: DBcoil
22
Symptom: Shock is harshly bottoming out.
Causes: Incorrect spring rate and/or insufficient high-speed compression (HSC).
Remedy: First confirm that your spring rate is correct, so that proper sag is achieved.
See page 8 for details. Next, increase (clockwise) high-speed compression (HSC) until
no harsh bottoming out is experienced while full travel is being used.
Symptom: Bike wallows under pedaling (pedal bob); overall ride is too soft.
Causes: Not enough low-speed damping.
Remedy: Increase (clockwise) both low-speed compression (LSC) and low-speed
rebound (LSR) to slow the movement of the suspension.
Symptom: Shock is harsh over chatter, braking bumps, and square edge hits.
Causes: Spring rate too high and/or too much high speed compression (HSC).
Remedy: First confirm that your spring rate is correct, so that proper sag is achieved.
See page 8 for details. Next, decrease (counterclockwise) high-speed compression
damping (HSC) until harshness is removed. If symptoms persists with HSC fully counterclockwise, gradually decrease LSC (counterclockwise).
Symptom: Rear end is bucking upon impacts, bike is nose-diving when jumping.
Causes: Not enough high-speed rebound (HSR).
Remedy: Increase (clockwise) high-speed rebound (HSR) until rear wheel rebounds
properly from deep in travel.
For more information on tuning your Double Barrel shock, view our
suspension instructional videos online at canecreek.com
TUNING TIPS: DBair
23
Note: In the following symptoms, there is a difference between air volume and air pressure. Air pressure is changed with the shock pump. Air volume is changed by adding/
removing the included air volume adjustment spacers.
Symptom: Shock is harshly bottoming out.
Causes: Insufficient high-speed compression (HSC) and/or incorrect air volume setting.
Remedy: Increase (clockwise) high-speed compression (HSC) until no harsh bottoming is experienced but full travel is being used. If enough HSC is required that the ride
becomes harsh, you may need to modify your air volume using the included air volume
adjustment spacers. For instructions on how to do this, go to www.canecreek.com.
Symptom: Bike wallows under pedaling (pedal bob); overall ride is too soft.
Causes: Not enough low-speed damping.
Remedy: Increase (clockwise) both low-speed compression (LSC) and low-speed
rebound (LSR) to slow the movement of the suspension.
Symptom: Shock is harsh over chatter, braking bumps, square edge hits.
Causes: Too much high speed compression damping (HSC) and/or incorrect air
volume setting.
Remedy: Decrease HSC (counterclockwise) until harshness is removed. If HSC is
fully counterclockwise but the harshness remains, you may need to modify your air
volume using the included air volume adjustment spacers. For instructions on how to
do this, go to www.canecreek.com.
Symptom: Rear end is bucking upon impacts, bike is nose-diving when jumping.
Causes: Not enough high-speed rebound (HSR).
Remedy: Increase (clockwise) high-speed rebound (HSR) until rear wheel rebounds
properly from deep in travel.
SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, AND CLEANING: DBcoil | DBair
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Cane Creek Double Barrel rear shocks are designed for long-term durability, though
some simple maintenance steps can ensure long-life and smooth function.
IMPORTANT NOTES
Do not use compressed air to clean any Double Barrel shock.
Do not use any solvents or de-greasers, as these products can damage the
shock’s exterior finish or its anodized parts.
Do not spray water directly at any seal. Never use a high pressure washer
on your rear shock.
When dirt dries onto the shock body, it may damage seals. With a damaged
seal, dirt works its way into the shock and can hinder performance and cause damage.
Simple, periodic maintenance can greatly extend the service life of your shock. If you
ride in extreme weather conditions, the service intervals should be more frequent.
Check for any oil leaks. If you are unsure if there is a leak or simply a seepage of
assembly grease, proceed with the cleaning steps below and recheck the suspect
area after riding.
Before every ride, check that the mounting hardware is tight and ensure there is no play
between the Norglide® bushing and the mounting hardware.
For cleaning, use mild soapy water, a very light pressure water spray to rinse, and wipe
dry with a clean, dry cloth.
SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, AND CLEANING: DBcoil and DBair
25
DBcoil
1 Clean around the Spring Adjustment Nut to prevent damage to the
threads on the shock body
2 Clean shock body exterior
3 Clean shaft
4 Wipe off spring
DBair
1 Clean shock body exterior, including travel indicating O-ring and blue shaft wiper
2 Wipe off air valve cap to prevent dirt from entering the air spring during inflation
3 Inspect the air sealing surfaces for scratches, dents, or other damage. Significant damage to air sealing surfaces may prevent the shock from holding air.
Recommended Service is every 100 hours of use.
Service should only be performed by a Cane Creek Authorized Service Center. Visit
www.canecreek.com or call the Cane Creek Customer Service Team at 800-234-2725
to locate a service center near you.
CAUTION Do not attempt to disassemble or refill the gas or oil in
the shock. Doing so could cause SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH and will
void the warranty.
WARRANTY
26
LIMITED ONE (1) YEAR WARRANTY ON SUSPENSION PRODUCTS
Subject to the limitations, terms and conditions hereof, Cane Creek warrants, to
the original retail owner of each new Cane Creek suspension product, that the
Cane Creek suspension product, when new, is free from defects in materials and
workmanship. This warranty expires one (1) year from the date of the original Cane
Creek suspension product retail purchase from an authorized Cane Creek dealer
or from a Cane Creek authorized Original Equipment Manufacturer where Cane
Creek suspension is included as original equipment on a purchased bike, unless
otherwise dictated by requirement of law.
TERMS OF WARRANTY
This warranty is conditioned on the Cane Creek suspension product being operated under normal conditions and properly maintained as specified by Cane Creek.
This warranty is only applicable to Cane Creek suspension purchased new from
an authorized Cane Creek source and is made only to the original retail owner of
the new Cane Creek suspension product and is not transferable to subsequent
owners. This warranty is void if the Cane Creek suspension product is subjected to
abuse, neglect, improper or unauthorized repair, improper or unauthorized service
or maintenance, alteration, modification, accident or other abnormal, excessive, or
improper use. Should it be determined, by Cane Creek in its sole and final discretion, that a Cane Creek suspension product is covered by this warranty, it will be
repaired or replaced, by a comparable model, at Cane Creek’s sole option, which
will be conclusive and binding.
THIS IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY UNDER THIS WARRANTY. ANY AND ALL
OTHER REMEDIES AND DAMAGES THAT MAY OTHERWISE BE APPLICABLE
ARE EXCLUDED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES.
WARRANTY
27
This limited warranty does not apply to normal wear and tear, malfunctions or
failures that result from abuse, improper assembly, neglect, alteration, improper
maintenance, crash, misuse or collision. Subject to the terms and conditions of
this warranty, leaking seals will be replaced within 90 days from the original date of
purchase. Such replacement notwithstanding, seals are subject to relative movement between parts and are normal wear and tear items not subject to warranty
coverage.
This limited warranty gives the consumer specific legal rights. The consumer may
also have other legal rights which vary from state to state or country to country.
Some states and countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages or warranties, so the above limitations or exclusions
may not apply to you. If it is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction that a
certain provision of this limited warranty does not apply, such determination shall
not affect any other provision of this limited warranty and all other provisions shall
remain in effect.
THIS IS THE ONLY WARRANTY MADE BY CANE CREEK ON ITS SUSPENSION PRODUCTS AND COMPONENTS, AND THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES
THAT EXTEND BEYOND THE DESCRIPTION HEREIN. ANY WARRANTIES
THAT MAY OTHERWISE BE IMPLIED BY LAW INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXCLUDED.
MY SETTINGS
RIDING WEIGHT
SHOCK AND STROKE LENGTH
SAG
SPRING RATE / AIR PRESSURE
TRAIL
28
1
Register your shock online
www.canecreek.com/products/suspension/the-lounge