Air Shock vs. Coil Shock: Which is Right for Your Mountain Bike?

AIR VS COIL 

When it comes to your mountain bike's suspension, it can seem that the grass is always greener on the other side. Depending on your riding style, trails, and specific category you prefer to mountain bike, it can be hard to decide what suspension is right for you. After two years of riding an air shock, I tried a progressive coil on my Yeti SB150. I wanted to share my overall thoughts on the two and write a list of pros and cons and who they may fit best if you're considering trying one out. I am comparing a 2023 Fox Float X2 air shock with extra volume and an EXT Storia LOK V3. These are my two favorite air and coil shocks. I've tried most of the other large air/coil brands and settled on these. 

Air Shock: 

Pros:

1. Adjustability: Air shocks are highly adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune their suspension to their exact preferences. You can easily alter the air pressure to change the shock's characteristics, making it stiffer or softer as needed. On higher-end shocks, you also can adjust low and speed compression, rebound, 
2. Lightweight: Air shocks are generally lighter than coil shocks. These weight savings can be beneficial, especially for cross-country or trail riders looking to shed grams.
3. Progressive Suspension: Air shocks tend to offer a progressive feel, which means they become stiffer as they compress further into their travel. This feature can be advantageous for absorbing big hits while maintaining a supportive platform during pedaling.
4. Affordability: Air shocks are generally more budget-friendly than high-end coil shocks
5. Pedal Efficiency: Most air shocks can have a lock-out feature that stiffens up the backend of the bike. This gives the bike a better pedaling position and makes the bike more efficient and enjoyable to climb.

Cons: 

1. Complexity: Air shocks can be more complex to set up correctly, and over-inflating or under-inflating them can significantly affect their performance.
2. Fluctuations: Air shocks can be sensitive to temperature changes. During long descents, this can lead to the shock overheating, causing fluctuations in suspension. This can result in harsh bottom-outs. 
3. Maintenance: Air shocks require more regular service and maintenance, resulting in more dollars and time spent working on your bike and less time on the trails.

Coil Shock:

Pros:

1. Consistency: Coil shocks offer a consistent feel throughout the suspension's travel, making them predictable and reliable. They are less affected by changes in temperature or air pressure.
2. Durability: Coil shocks are robust and typically require less maintenance than air shocks, making them an excellent choice for riding their bikes through rigorous days at the bike park.
3. Simplicity: Coil shocks are easier to set up, as there's no need to worry about air pressure. This can be advantageous for riders who prefer a straightforward approach to suspension tuning.
4. It's Cool: Let's just face it: a coil shock looks badass. A pretty bike is a fast bike. 

Cons

1. Weight: Coil shocks are heavier than air shocks, which can be a drawback for riders concerned with weight savings.
2. Limited Adjustability: Coil shocks have limited adjustability compared to air shocks. Fine-tuning the suspension can be challenging, and changes often require swapping out stiffer and softer springs.
3. Less Progressive: Coil shocks are typically less progressive than air shocks, affecting their ability to absorb significant impacts.

Which is suitable for who? 

Coil shock: 

• If weight is not your priority.
• If you enjoy the downhill more than the uphill.
• If you're a "set and forget" type of rider.
• If you prefer a more planted feel.
• If you don't want to service your shock as much. 

Air shock:

• If your local trails include uphill and flat sections.
• If you tend to adjust your suspension frequently.
• If you prefer a more playful bike.
• If you're a weight weenie. 
• If you like the feel of a progressive rear shock. 

Remember that there's no one-size-fits-all answer, and your decision should be based on your specific needs and the type of terrain you typically ride on. It's always a good idea to test two kinds of shocks if possible and consult with experienced riders or bike shop professionals to help you make an informed decision. Both EXT and FOX have great demo programs where you can reach out and try one before you buy. When it is a doubt, just buy both. Or get a new bike... that always helps me.

Thanks to FOX MTB and EXT USA for providing the suspension tested in this article. Both companies make some of the best suspension in the market in all categories. 

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