Damping and Dampers

A spring alone would keep bouncing after every bump. Damping removes that unwanted energy: the damper forces oil through small holes and shims, turning movement into heat, so the wheel settles quickly and stays in contact with the ground.

Most bikes have separate compression damping (how fast the suspension goes in) and rebound damping (how fast it comes back out). Adjustable forks and shocks let you tune both with clickers. A steering damper works on the same principle to calm handlebar shake.

Signs of worn damping are a pogo-like ride, wallowing in corners and oil on the fork tubes or shock body. Damper oil degrades, so fork oil changes and shock servicing are part of normal maintenance.