Controlling how your suspension compresses
Compression damping controls the speed at which your suspension compresses when it encounters an impact. Think of it as resistance to compression—it determines how your suspension reacts to bumps, drops, and rider inputs like braking and cornering. Modern suspension typically has two types: low-speed compression (LSC) for rider inputs and high-speed compression (HSC) for sharp impacts.
⚠️ Important Clarification
"Low-speed" and "high-speed" refer to the speed of the shaft movement, not how fast you're riding. You can experience high-speed compression while riding slowly if you hit a sharp edge.
Controls slow, sustained compression from:
Usually marked with a blue adjuster
Controls fast, sharp compression from:
Usually requires a 3mm hex key (internal adjuster)
💡 Which One Should You Adjust?
Start with LSC—it's more accessible and has a bigger impact on everyday ride feel. Only adjust HSC if you have specific issues with harsh impacts or you're an advanced rider fine-tuning for racing.
Look for a blue knob or dial, usually located:
Note: Not all suspension has external LSC adjustment. Check your owner's manual.
Most manufacturers recommend starting with LSC fully open (minimum damping):
This test helps you dial in fork LSC:
For rear shock LSC:
Make small adjustments based on how the bike feels:
⚠️ Advanced Adjustment
HSC adjustment is more subtle and requires experience to feel. Only adjust if you have specific issues with harsh impacts or you're an advanced rider. Most riders can leave HSC at the factory setting.
HSC adjusters are usually internal and require a 3mm hex key:
Add HSC (turn clockwise) if you experience:
Reduce HSC (turn counter-clockwise) if you experience:
HSC adjustments are very sensitive. Make changes of only 1-2 clicks at a time and ride for several runs before making further adjustments. The effects are subtle and take time to notice.
→ Solution: Add LSC (turn clockwise) 2-3 clicks
→ Solution: Remove LSC (turn counter-clockwise) 2-3 clicks
Too Little HSC:
Too Much HSC:
→ Solution: Adjust HSC 1 click at a time (very sensitive)
Begin with minimum compression damping and add support as needed. It's easier to feel when you need more support than when you have too much.
Always dial in your LSC before touching HSC. LSC has a bigger impact on everyday ride feel and is easier to adjust.
Bike park? Add LSC for support. Technical XC? Remove LSC for sensitivity. Adjust for the terrain you're riding.
If you're constantly bottoming out, consider adding volume spacers instead of maxing out compression damping.
Many compression issues are actually sag problems in disguise. Make sure your sag is correct before adjusting compression.
Keep a detailed log of your compression settings. Note the terrain, conditions, and how the bike felt.
With sag, rebound, and compression dialed in, you've completed the suspension setup trifecta. Your bike should now feel like an extension of your body, ready to tackle any trail with confidence.