AVA (Air Volume Adjuster)

Certain FLOAT models feature AVA (see picture at right), a technology that affords new levels of fine-tuning adjustment. The AVA air sleeve replaces the standard air sleeve on your FLOAT rear shock. AVA increases or decreases the volume of the positive air spring chamber, which allows the rider to alter the shape of the spring curve. The AVA system can create a shock with a 30% more linear spring rate than a standard FLOAT shock. AVA allows as much as 200 lbs. of bottom-out adjustment.

AVA is a pre-ride tuning feature. The AVA system is not intended to be used on-the-fly. It is important to clean your shock, especially the threads of the AVA air sleeve, prior to adjustment. Rotation of the AVA ring may require complete deflation of the shock.

To adjust an AVA-equipped FLOAT rear shock:

1. Using a shock pump, let most or all of the air from the shock so that the AVA ring can be easily turned.
2. Turn the ring until it just touches the wire ring that is snapped onto the air sleeve. This is the maximum volume setting.
3. Pressurize the shock and set sag as normal. AVA does not affect sag.
4. If the shock seems to bottom out too easily, deflate the shock and rotate the ring to the next setting on the air sleeve.
5. Pressurize the shock, set sag and test again for full stroke performance.
6. Repeat this process until the setting that best fits your riding style and terrain is achieved.

Air sleeve service can be performed as on other FLOAT shocks. Clean AVA seals after every other normal FLOAT seal service, especially if riding conditions are muddy or dusty. Carefully remove wire rings and air sleeves. Clean and inspect seals and parts for damage or wear. Re-lubricate and carefully re-assemble.

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