Below is a simple set-up guide for Progressive 5th Element or Swinger shocks on SGS models. These instructions were provided by the Iron Horse/Mad Catz team mechanic.

<<1. Both beginning and ending stroke adjusters all the way out.

2. Air pressure was between 80-100psi depending on the volume adjuster.

3. Volume adjuster was between 2-2 1/2 turns in from all the way out...2 turns in = 100ish psi or 2 1/2 turns in = 80ish psi

4. rebound is rider/terrain preference.>>

My suggestions on spring rates for the DH bikes are below. These are only suggestions for DH racing use. Some riders may prefer lighter/heavier springs for different types of riding

< 150 = 300#
150-175 = 350#
175-200 = 400#
200-225 = 450#

-ska todd

i didnt thik you could get 300 pound springs.
well atleast in the 2.75 stroke i have i think 350 is the lowest. im only like 110 and i have a 400(its what came on there) and i think i am def going to get a new spring. i have to run like 50psi in there for it to be setup good for me.

Got any spring rate suggestions for the 03 Expert? Mine came with the Manitou Swinger SPV3 with a 600lb spring. How much lighter could I go on the spring?

Thanks!

i didnt thik you could get 300 pound springs.
well atleast in the 2.75 stroke i have i think 350 is the lowest. im only like 110 and i have a 400(its what came on there) and i think i am def going to get a new spring. i have to run like 50psi in there for it to be setup good for me.

Check again w/ Progressive as they are always adding new spring weights to their selection. Also, the Manitou springs should fit your shock.

Got any spring rate suggestions for the 03 Expert? Mine came with the Manitou Swinger SPV3 with a 600lb spring. How much lighter could I go on the spring?

It all depends...this spring is designed around someone in the 180-200 range. I suggest stepping down at 50lb increments until you find the spring that meets your needs.

-ska todd

Thanks Todd. Sorry, I forgot to list my weight. That would be 160lbs so I guess 550 or 500lb would work.

I have been riding my new SGS WC for almost a week now. I basically followed the 5th element setup options provided by todd.

My Setup:
400lbs spring
100psi - 2 turns from all the way out.
low\high speed compression - all the way out.
lots of sag! slow rebound.

The stock 400lbs spring actually feels fairly hard. I weight 90kg (200lbs), and it feels right for me. For the average person you might consider a lighter spring.

The bike pedals awesome!!!!!!!!

Question:
Todd, is the stock spring titanium or steel?
I was arguing with Ricky and his dad about this on the weekend. They seem to think its titanium, I am sure you told me in the past that its steel.
Cheers,
Andrew

Todd, is the stock spring titanium or steel?
I was arguing with Ricky and his dad about this on the weekend. They seem to think its titanium, I am sure you told me in the past that its steel.

Steel. Ti costs way too much for an OE item for a complete bike IMHO.

-ska todd

Below is a simple set-up guide for Progressive 5th Element or Swinger shocks on SGS models. These instructions were provided by the Iron Horse/Mad Catz team mechanic.

<<1. Both beginning and ending stroke adjusters all the way out.

2. Air pressure was between 80-100psi depending on the volume adjuster.

3. Volume adjuster was between 2-2 1/2 turns in from all the way out...2 turns in = 100ish psi or 2 1/2 turns in = 80ish psi

4. rebound is rider/terrain preference.>>

My suggestions on spring rates for the DH bikes are below. These are only suggestions for DH racing use. Some riders may prefer lighter/heavier springs for different types of riding

< 150 = 300#
150-175 = 350#
175-200 = 400#
200-225 = 450#

-ska todd

when turning the volume adjuster counter clockwise, should it come all the way out? In the manual it says to stop turning it anticlockwise as soon as it becomes stiff, but mine keeps turning and comes out? Is this right?

when turning the volume adjuster counter clockwise, should it come all the way out? In the manual it says to stop turning it anticlockwise as soon as it becomes stiff, but mine keeps turning and comes out? Is this right?

Lumpy,

I personally haven't screwed it out all the way before. I'd recommend contacting your Progressive or Answer distributor just to check before doing something catastrophic to your shock.

-ska todd