How to set up and adjust the Specialized Epic World Cup shock absorber

The Specialized Epic World Cup is undoubtedly one of the great novelties of 2023 and its sales seem to be booming during its presentation year. One of the peculiarities that make this mountain bike so special is its rear shock and here we leave you the definitive explanation so that anyone can set it up at home.

How to set up and adjust the shock of the Specialized Epic World Cup

In Brujulabike we have defined it on more than one occasion as a hardtail mountain bike with full suspension and the truth is that, although contradictory, it seems to us the most accurate when it comes to defining it.

The shock of the Specialized Epic World Cup has been developed by Rock Shox specifically for this bike and its particularity is that it allows configuring the ratio between the positive and negative air chambers. The system has no remote lockout option and any configuration must be done prior to riding with it. Something that goes against the current damping systems but that convinces everyone who tries it.

Equipment required for setting up

• 4mm Allen key
• Air pump for suspension

Points to be located on the shock absorber

• Negative pressure release valve - This is located at the bottom and is pressed with the allen key.
• Positive air valve - It is located at the top and is where the shock is emptied and where you must attach the air pump to set the chosen pressure.
• Rebound (red) and compression (blue) dials.

Setup process

The first thing you should know is that the system has three general configuration modes: full gulp, half gulp and no gulp.

The compression of the shock absorber should be adjusted in case you need to pedal more firmly and the rebound is set in relation to the weight of the rider and the pressure chosen, here are some tables to set these two parameters.

FULL GULP

In full gulp mode the shock will be more sensitive to impacts and bumps, will have more sag and is a perfect mode for long rides or more technical terrain.

1. Drain the pressure of the shock absorber (check that it is at zero with the pressure gauge of the suspension pump).
2. Fully compress the shock by putting weight on the saddle.
3. Press the negative air release valve with the allen key for 4 seconds
4. Add air to the shock to the pressure recommended for your weight in the table for FULL GULP mode and leave 4 mm of sag.

HALF GULP

This is the mode recommended by the brand as a starting point for any cyclist and is the one they claim is used in most competition circuits.

1. Drain the shock absorber pressure (check that it is at zero with the pressure gauge of the suspension pump).
2. Compress the shock absorber to the intermediate line printed on the rod.
3. Depress negative air release valve with allen wrench for 2 seconds
4. Add air to the shock to the pressure recommended for your weight in the table for HALF GULP mode and allow 2 to 3 mm of sag.

NO GULP

The firm mode offers the closest feel to a fully stiff mountain bike and is the best choice for those looking for maximum pedaling efficiency. The shock is still capable of absorbing hard impacts such as jumps or unexpected cuts.

1. Add pressure to the shock absorber up to the pressure recommended for your weight in the table for NO GULP mode.
2. Depress the negative air release valve with the allen wrench.

Remember that these modes and pressures have been established by Specialized and Rock Shox as a general starting point, but any rider can try out the almost infinite possibilities that the system allows until they find the one that best suits their riding style and terrain.