Rockshox Thru Shaft Rear Shock Service Options in the UK

[Nautical Biker]

Has anyone recently had their Trek Rail Thru Shaft rear shock serviced? It seems this is not something that is very well supported these days, since Trek moved back to a traditional setup on their newer bikes. I had a look at the TF-Tuned website which states that they can no longer service these shocks.
Has anyone tried to service one at home? It looks like you need special tools.

 

[arTNC]

Even working at a bike shop, I've not actually seen one of these thru shaft shocks in the flesh. Every Trek we've come across and/or sold has the conventional design shock. If I'm reading correctly here on this forum, isn't this shock capable of being replaced by a conventional design with just a change in hardware? If so, it seems that is the logical next step. I usually rebuild all my own shocks and forks over the years with service parts from the manufacturer. If this thru shaft shock isn't supported anymore even down to internal replacement parts, then there's no need to pursue reviving it.

However, as is often the case, some industrious individuals and even small aftermarket suspension outfits often come up with their own solutions even when the manufacturer has completely abandoned a specific component. Maybe someone can suggest one. Otherwise I'd move on from the thru-shaft if it indeed is replaceable with a conventional shock option. It's a shame really, as the design appeared to have promise when introduced, but apparently there were issues that don't make it viable for the long run.

 

[Nautical Biker]

Even working at a bike shop, I've not actually seen one of these thru shaft shocks in the flesh. Every Trek we've come across and/or sold has the conventional design shock. If I'm reading correctly here on this forum, isn't this shock capable of being replaced by a conventional design with just a change in hardware? If so, it seems that is the logical next step. I usually rebuild all my own shocks and forks over the years with service parts from the manufacturer. If this thru shaft shock isn't supported anymore even down to internal replacement parts, then there's no need to pursue reviving it.

However, as is often the case, some industrious individuals and even small aftermarket suspension outfits often come up with their own solutions even when the manufacturer has completely abandoned a specific component. Maybe someone can suggest one. Otherwise I'd move on from the thru-shaft if it indeed is replaceable with a conventional shock option. It's a shame really, as the design appeared to have promise when introduced, but apparently there were issues that don't make it viable for the long run.

Thanks for the reply. I haven't had any issues with the shock (touch wood) but I don't thrash the bike mercilessly like some so perhaps that's why its held up when others have had issues. My e-bike doesn't get a lot of hours as I usually ride a human powered MTB except in winter when the conditions are poor. I have done the usual basic service at home one every six months but it will be due a full service rebuild at some point. I've held off on this for now because the shock is performing well and is in good condition. Ironically the TF Tuned website still has the basic service kits for sale! I did some searching around and J-Tech suspension offer a service for £135.
I've always owned MTB hardtails in the past (and still do) so servicing forks is no issue but I'm a bit more wary about rear shocks due to my lack of knowledge and experience.

 

[SiDobsFig]

Try Sprung Sus in Cinderford. FOD. They may be able to help.

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