Bottoming Out

Bottoming out happens when the fork or shock compresses through its full travel and reaches the end stop. The rider feels a harsh clunk or jolt, the bike can become unstable, and repeated bottoming can damage suspension, wheels and frame. On a low bike it may also bring the underside or exhaust into contact with the ground.

Common causes are springs too soft for the rider's weight or load, too little preload, too little compression damping, low fork oil level or worn suspension. Big landings, potholes and carrying a passenger and luggage increase the risk.

First set the sag correctly with preload or a different spring rate, then adjust compression damping. In forks, the oil level controls the air gap and how firmly the fork resists the last part of its travel. Occasional light bottoming on the biggest hit is normal; frequent harsh bottoming is not.