Frame & Suspension
What is a Rear Shock?
The rear equivalent of a suspension fork, on full-suspension bikes.
Simplified schematic — not to scale.
In plain English
On full-suspension mountain bikes, the rear shock sits between the frame's front and rear triangles, controlling how the back wheel moves over bumps.
A simple analogy
“If the fork is one shock absorber, the rear shock is its twin, working the back wheel instead of the front.”
How it works
As the rear wheel hits a bump, the frame's linkage compresses the shock's air or coil spring, while internal damping controls the speed of compression and rebound.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Wallowy or bouncy pedalling feel
- ⚠Visible oil leak around the shock body
- ⚠Won't hold sag pressure between rides
Rough UK cost
£50 – £180 for a service, £150 – £900+ to replace
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by bike, region and parts brand.
Heads up: Bikeautonomy is for general guidance only. If your bike is behaving oddly or you're not confident, get it looked at by a qualified bike mechanic.