So I need to get my new shock (and frame) sorted and whilst at it my Pikes i think. Have the new rc3 debonair hv shock set at 30 percent sag when in full open position stood on the bike. However when giving it some beans I'm pushing through the full 160 travel according to the guide ring.
I weigh 13 stone if that's of any interest. As for the pikes I'm running those 25 psi over the recommended weight guide to stop them bottoming also.
Help
I found one token in 160 mm pikes meant reduced bottoming out with lower pressure-win-win as the initial travel was more plush and yet ramped up at the other end. Others have used two tokens for more support at the bottom end.
I weigh 90kg and run lower pressure than suggested on the fork for my weight now.
75kg running recommended pressure and 2 tokens, no bottoming out, seems to be able take big hits with ease.
These both for forks as opposed to rear shock?
Yes, fork. I have no experience of the shock, sorry. If it is of any help, I have a Fox shock and have put in a medium volume reducer with the same effect- preventing bottoming out
What's your frame? Looking at the leverage curve will help with getting you in the right direction.
I'm finding 1 token on a 160mm and 3 tokens in a 130mm Pike, both 27.5 works well for me. The 160 rarely gets bottomed out unless I screw up, the 130 uses full travel if I huck it because it's on a hardtail so the BB pivots about the rear axle when you land heavy, driving all your weight through the fork. The way Pikes are made you need the most tokens in a 120mm 29 and the least in a 160mm 26.
New nukeproof mega 160.
It'll definitely need a few bottomless things in the shock, it's progressive but not hugely, about 20%.