A strong all-mountain rear shock combines a frame-compatible size with controllable damping and enough adjustment for climbs, trails, and rough descents. The DNM AO-38RC is the leading pick here because it offers adjustable air pressure, rebound, and lockout, and its listed XC/trail use matches mixed riding. This set ranges from compact air shocks with several eye-to-eye lengths to premium RockShox options aimed at enduro or downhill, plus coil shocks for buyers comparing spring setups.
The listings do not establish universal frame compatibility, so match eye-to-eye length, stroke, mounting hardware, and spring or air requirements to your bike before ordering. Treat broad vehicle-fit claims cautiously: a shock that physically fits still needs suitable suspension dimensions and setup.
The MEROCA AO-38RC is the best all-mountain rear shock in this group for riders seeking an adjustable option for mixed XC and trail use. It offers air-pressure adjustment up to 270 psi, rebound adjustment, and lockout, with a listed 190 x 50 mm size. Those controls give it a stronger mixed-terrain match than basic air-pressure-only models.
Confirm your frame’s required eye-to-eye length, stroke, and bushings before buying; the listed size alone does not establish compatibility.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts XC/trail designation and adjustable air pressure, rebound, and lockout suit mixed terrain; the listing includes a 190 x 50 mm size.
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Best Lockout OptionThis 190 x 50 mm air shock offers three-step lockout and rebound adjustment, making it a useful control-focused alternative for varied riding.
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Best Enduro TuningListed for downhill, enduro, and E-MTB, it combines a 210 x 55 mm size with independent low- and high-speed compression adjustment.
View on Amazon- Three-Stage Lockout catazer AO-39RC
- Wide Size Selection catazer AO-6
Compare rear shocks by fit and adjustment features
| # | Product | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Material Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. MEROCA AO-38RCBest Overall | Bike | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. DNM AO-8RCBest Lockout Option | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1Best Enduro Tuning | Bicycle | Multi | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. catazer AO-39RCThree-Stage Lockout | Bicycle | Aluminum | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. MEROCA AO-6Lightweight adjustable-air conversions | Bike, MTB, Mountain Bike, E-Bike, Scooter | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. catazer AO-6Wide Size Selection | Bicycle, Scooter | Aluminum | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. JFOYH EXA Form 291RAdjustable-damping coil setup | Scooter | CNC alloy | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. CNC Mountain Bike ShockHydraulic shock size selection | Bicycle | Aluminum | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Tongze 180mm Coil ShockHigh-load coil-spring applications | ATV, Bicycle, Go Kart, Motorcycle… | Steel, Aluminium Alloy | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. RockShox Vivid Coil UltimateDownhill coil-damper tunability | Bicycle | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best All Mountain Rear Shock

#1 · Best Overall
1. MEROCA AO-38RC
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bike
Best for: Remote-control XC and trail tuning.
Why it ranks #1: Its XC/trail designation and adjustable air pressure, rebound, and lockout suit mixed terrain; the listing includes a 190 x 50 mm size.
The AO-38RC combines air-pressure adjustment with rebound and lockout controls, giving XC and trail riders several ways to tailor shock behavior. Its manual remote lockout is the defining convenience: riders can engage the listed control without relying solely on adjustments at the shock itself.
Air pressure can be adjusted up to 270 psi, while rebound control offers a separate way to tune how the shock returns. The manual remote lockout adds an on-the-bike control option, useful when switching between terrain or riding demands. MEROCA lists an AL-7075, 10 mm damper shaft and an AL-6061 body, and specifies XC/trail use. Check the required eye-to-eye and travel dimensions against the bike before fitting.
- Air pressure adjustable up to 270 psi
- Rebound adjustment
- Manual remote lockout
- AL-7075 shaft and AL-6061 body
- The listed size is 190 x 50 mm, limiting it to bikes requiring that dimension.
Skip it if you need a different listed shock length; catazer’s AO-39RC is offered in 165 x 35, 190 x 50, and 200 x 55 mm sizes.
This suits XC and trail riders who value air-pressure and rebound tuning plus a manual remote lockout. Its listed 190 x 50 mm size is a firm fit consideration, so verify the bike’s required shock dimensions before choosing it.
Full product details
| Brand | MEROCA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bike |
| Included Components | 2 Pcs Bushings |
| Manufacturer | DNM |
| Part Number | AO-38RC |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Model Number | 190 x 50 mm |
| Style | XC / TRAIL |
| Style Name | XC / TRAIL |
Listed on Amazon as: DNM AO-38RC Mtb Rear Shock Bike Air Rear Shock Rebound/Lock Out – Manual Remote – Adjustable Air Pressure (190 x 50 mm (7.48" x 1.97"))
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #2: This 190 x 50 mm air shock offers three-step lockout and rebound adjustment, making it a useful control-focused alternative for varied riding.
Three-step lockout and rebound adjustments give the DNM AO-8RC two distinct controls for adapting its 190 x 50 mm air shock. Its 291 g listed weight and air-adjustable chamber suit buyers looking for a lightweight setup with terrain-related adjustment rather than a fixed coil spring.
The AO-8RC combines a three-step lockout with rebound adjustment, letting riders change those settings independently as riding conditions call for it. The air-adjustable chamber offers another setup element, while the stated 190 x 50 mm eye-to-eye and travel dimensions define the installation fit. DNM lists 8 mm eyelet diameter and 24 mm eyelet width, useful mounting measurements to compare with the existing hardware before fitting.
- Three-step lockout
- Rebound adjustment
- Air-adjustable chamber
- 291 g listed weight
- Only the 190 x 50 mm size is specified.
Skip it if you need multiple listed size options; CNC’s hydraulic rear shock lists several lengths and eye-to-eye/travel combinations.
Consider this for a rider seeking an air shock with lockout and rebound adjustment in a 190 x 50 mm configuration. Its listed eyelet dimensions also matter for installation, so compare those measurements with the bike’s existing mount.
Full product details
| Brand | DNM |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Rear Shock |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 9.76 x 4.13 x 2.36 inches |
| Manufacturer | DNM |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model | AO-8RC |
| Package Weight | 0.37 kg |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
Listed on Amazon as: DNM AO-8RC 190x50mm Mountain Bike Air Rear Shock with Lockout, ST2676
View on Amazon
#3 · Best Enduro Tuning
3. RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bicycle
- Material Type: Multi
Best for: Tunable air spring for enduro.
Why it ranks #3: Listed for downhill, enduro, and E-MTB, it combines a 210 x 55 mm size with independent low- and high-speed compression adjustment.
A Linear XL air spring with two adjustable tokens gives the Vivid Ultimate D1 a coil-like, consistent ride feel with a stated tuning option. Its RC2T damper adds independent low- and high-speed compression adjustments, giving enduro, downhill, and E-MTB riders multiple setup controls.
The two Linear XL tokens let riders tune the air spring, while independent low- and high-speed compression adjustments provide separate damping controls. An Adjustable Bottom Out dial offers five settings for cushioning in the shock’s last 20% of travel, addressing end-stroke behavior directly. At 210 x 55 mm, this model has a specific fit requirement. The listing identifies it for downhill, enduro, and E-MTB riding, making frame dimensions and intended use central selection checks.
- Linear XL air spring with two adjustable tokens
- Independent low- and high-speed compression adjustments
- Five-setting Adjustable Bottom Out dial
- 210 x 55 mm listed size
- Its 210 x 55 mm size does not suit frames requiring another shock dimension.
Skip it if you need a 230 x 65 mm coil shock; RockShox Vivid Coil Ultimate RC2T lists that size and adjustable hydraulic bottom out.
This suits downhill, enduro, and E-MTB riders seeking air-spring, compression, and bottom-out tuning. The 210 x 55 mm dimension is a strict fit boundary, so match it to the frame before considering its adjustment range.
Full product details
| Brand | RockShox |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle |
| Included Components | Rear Shocks |
| Item Weight | 2.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | RockShox |
| Part Number | RockShox-RRSK1294 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Warranty |
| Material | Multi |
| Model Number | 00.4118.547.004 |
| Style | Classic |
| Style Name | Classic |
Listed on Amazon as: RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 Rear shock, 210×55, Shaft Eyelet: Standard, Body
View on Amazon
#4 · Three-Stage Lockout
4. catazer AO-39RC
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bicycle
- Material Type: Aluminum
Best for: Three-mode terrain switching.
Why it ranks #4: Its three-stage lockout is described for road, light off-road, and rough off-road settings, with rebound adjustment and a 190 x 50 mm option.
A three-stage lockout gives the AO-39RC its clearest use case: choose a fully open setting for rough off-road riding, a middle position for light off-road, or lockout for roads. A rebound dial adds a second control for adjusting how quickly the shock returns.
The maker describes the three lockout positions by terrain, allowing riders to switch between road, light off-road, and rough off-road use. A simple dial adjusts rebound speed clockwise for slower return and counterclockwise for faster return, so setup can address both terrain and recovery behavior. Aluminum construction is described as lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Listed options include 165 x 35, 190 x 50, and 200 x 55 mm, with weights specified for each.
- Three-stage lockout with terrain-specific positions
- Dial-adjustable rebound speed
- Aluminum-alloy body
- Three listed size and weight combinations
- The supplied details do not specify a remote lockout control.
Skip it if you want remote lockout control; MEROCA’s AO-38RC lists a manual remote alongside rebound and air-pressure adjustment.
Pick this for a rider who switches among roads, light trails, and rough off-road routes and wants simple rebound tuning. Select from its three stated dimensions, since the available size must match the bike’s shock requirements.
Full product details
| Brand | catazer |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle |
| Included Components | Bicycle rear shock |
| Manufacturer | catazer |
| Part Number | RES803 |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | AO-39RC |
Listed on Amazon as: AO-39RC Air Shock Absorber Bike Rear Shock 3-Stage Lockout 190mm
View on Amazon
#5
5. MEROCA AO-6
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bike, MTB, Mountain Bike, E-Bike, Scooter
Best for: Lightweight adjustable-air conversions.
Why it ranks #5: This air shock offers pressure adjustment up to 250 psi and several listed eye-to-eye lengths, including a 190 x 51 mm configuration.
Air-pressure adjustment up to 250 psi is the AO-6’s defining feature, letting riders tune spring pressure rather than rely on a fixed coil rate. Its aluminum-alloy body and stated XC/city use make it a compact option for mountain bikes and other listed vehicle types, with several eye-to-eye lengths offered.
The AO-6 uses an AL-6061 shock body and an air-adjustable chamber, combining a lightweight alloy construction with pressure tuning for riders who want to tailor suspension feel. MEROCA recommends using a pressure gauge when inflating, making pressure checks part of setup. Listed lengths span 100, 125, 150, 165, and 190 mm, so the range supports different installations, but the matching eye-to-eye and travel dimensions still matter when replacing an existing shock.
- Air pressure adjustable up to 250 psi
- AL-6061 shock body
- Several listed eye-to-eye lengths
- Listed for MTB, folding bikes, scooters, and other applications
- No rebound or lockout adjustment is listed.
Skip it if you need rebound tuning or lockout; MEROCA’s AO-38RC lists both controls alongside air-pressure adjustment.
Choose this for an XC or city bike setup where adjustable air pressure and an alloy body suit your priorities. It is also listed for folding bikes and scooters, but confirm the required eye-to-eye length and travel before installation.
Full product details
| Brand | MEROCA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bike, MTB, Mountain Bike, E-Bike, Scooter |
| Included Components | 1 Air Rear Shock, 2 Sleeve Dimensions |
| Manufacturer | DNM |
| Part Number | A0-6 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Model Number | AO6-190 mm x 51 mm |
| Style | Minimalist |
| Style Name | Minimalist |
Listed on Amazon as: DNM AO-6 Mountain Bike Air Rear Shock AL 6061 Shock Body Adjustable Air Pressure 100/125/150/165/190mm Bike Shock Absorber (190mm x 51mm (7.48" x2.01"))
View on Amazon
#6 · Wide Size Selection
6. catazer AO-6
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bicycle, Scooter
- Material Type: Aluminum
Best for: Multi-length air-shock replacement.
Why it ranks #6: Five listed eye-to-eye sizes from 100 to 190 mm and air-pressure adjustment make it adaptable, though the listing gives no rebound control.
Five eye-to-eye lengths, from 100 to 190 mm, make this AO-6 notable for riders comparing replacement dimensions across different bikes. Its air spring is adjustable up to 250 psi, while the listed 8 x 24 mm DU bushings provide a specific mounting dimension to check during installation.
Catazer lists 100, 125, 150, 165, and 190 mm eye-to-eye choices and calls for measuring both eye-to-eye length and stroke before ordering. That measurement-led approach helps avoid selecting the wrong replacement size. The aluminum air shock is pre-charged to 150 psi and adjustable up to 250 psi, so its pressure can be tuned after fitting. The manufacturer also lists MTB, folding bike, e-bike, and scooter compatibility, subject to matching dimensions.
- Five listed eye-to-eye lengths
- Air pressure adjustable up to 250 psi
- Factory pre-charge listed at 150 psi
- 8 x 24 mm DU bushings
- The supplied details do not list rebound or lockout adjustment.
Skip it if you require rebound or lockout controls; catazer’s AO-39RC lists rebound adjustment and three-stage lockout.
This is for buyers seeking an air shock with several length options and pressure adjustment for a listed MTB, folding bike, e-bike, or scooter. Measure both eye-to-eye length and stroke, and account for the specified bushings before installation.
Full product details
| Brand | catazer |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle, Scooter |
| Manufacturer | catazer |
| Part Number | 783798104777 |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 783798104777 |
| Style | Modern |
| Style Name | Modern |
Listed on Amazon as: Mountain Bike Rear Shocks AO-6 Air Pressure Shock Absorber 190mm
View on Amazon
#7
7. JFOYH EXA Form 291R
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Scooter
- Material Type: CNC alloy
Best for: Adjustable-damping coil setup.
Why it ranks #7: The coil shock lists adjustable damping and 125, 150, 165, and 190 mm eye-to-eye options, but its spring-rate choices need careful matching.
Adjustable damping is the JFOYH EXA Form 291R’s key draw, giving riders a way to tune suspension behavior rather than accept a fixed damping setup. The listing offers 125, 150, 165, and 190 mm eye-to-eye options and spring ratings of 650, 1,000, or 1,500 lb.
Choosing both the eye-to-eye length and spring stiffness is explicitly emphasized in the listing, making those the central setup decisions before purchase. The available length and spring-rating choices let buyers compare configurations for their application, while adjustable damping offers another tuning control. JFOYH describes the shock as reducing vehicle impact and improving ride comfort. Compatibility references include MTB, e-bike, and scooter, but the specifications specifically list scooter, so check application and dimensions carefully.
- Adjustable damping
- Four listed eye-to-eye lengths
- Three listed spring ratings
- Listed for MTB, e-bike, and scooter applications
- The supplied specifications do not identify the damping adjustment range or control positions.
Skip it if you need a stated adjustment range and three lockout positions; catazer’s AO-39RC describes both rebound direction and lockout modes.
This suits buyers looking for adjustable damping and a choice of listed lengths and spring ratings for an MTB, e-bike, or scooter application. Since length and spring stiffness are central fit choices, verify both against the intended vehicle.
Full product details
| Brand | JFOYH |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Scooter |
| Manufacturer | JFOYH |
| Part Number | JFOYH Bike |
| Material | CNC alloy |
| Model Number | JFOYH Bike |
| Style | Modern |
| Style Name | Modern |
Listed on Amazon as: JFOYH EXA Form 291R Rear Shock, Adjustable Damping Suspension for MTB, E-Bike & Scooter, 125/150/165/190mm Eye-to-Eye, 650/1000/1500 lbs
View on Amazon
#8
8. CNC Mountain Bike Shock
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bicycle
- Material Type: Aluminum
Best for: Hydraulic shock size selection.
Why it ranks #8: It lists multiple lengths and 750 or 1000 lb options, but the supplied details do not specify damping adjustments or a riding-style target.
This CNC hydraulic rear shock is offered across several eye-to-eye lengths and two stated load ratings, giving buyers multiple configurations to compare for a bicycle modification. The listed options include lengths from 125 to 190 mm, with 750 or 1,000 lb loads and 8 x 24 mm bushings.
The specifications list 125 x 15, 150 x 25, 165 x 40, and 190 x 50 mm eye-to-eye and travel combinations, alongside 750 lb and 1,000 lb load options. That range helps buyers identify a configuration matching their current shock dimensions, while the 8 x 24 mm bushing size is a separate installation detail to check. The listing names mountain bikes, electric bikes, and scooters as applications; it does not describe adjustment controls.
- Hydraulic rear suspension shock
- Multiple listed eye-to-eye and travel combinations
- 750 lb and 1,000 lb load options
- 8 x 24 mm bushing size
- No damping, rebound, or lockout adjustment is specified.
Skip it if you want explicitly listed rebound and lockout controls; MEROCA’s AO-38RC specifies both adjustments and air-pressure tuning.
Choose this when a hydraulic shock’s listed dimensions, load option, and bushing size match a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter modification. The product details focus on configuration rather than tuning controls, so it is a better fit when those controls are not required.
Full product details
| Brand | CNC |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle |
| Included Components | Comes with housing |
| Manufacturer | ShenZhenShiShiLiLanTianKeJiYouXianGongSi |
| Part Number | 190-1000 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | One-year warranty |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | bike rear shock absorber |
| Style | 190mm x 1000lbs |
| Style Name | 190mm x 1000lbs |
Listed on Amazon as: CNC Mountain Bike Rear Shock 120mm 125mm 150mm 165mm 185mm 190mm 200mm, Bicycle Shock Absorber Hydraulic Rear Suspension Shock for Mtb Mtn ebike Dmn.190mm x1000lbs
View on Amazon
#9
9. Tongze 180mm Coil Shock
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: ATV, Bicycle, Go Kart, Motorcycle…
- Material Type: Steel, Aluminium Alloy
Best for: High-load coil-spring applications.
Why it ranks #9: Its 180 mm coil shock lists a 1500 lb maximum load and broad vehicle applications, but gives little detail for matching trail suspension needs.
A stated 1,500 lb maximum load sets this 180 mm Tongze coil shock apart for buyers prioritizing its listed load capacity. The 8 mm-thick spring and aluminum-alloy-and-steel construction are specified alongside use on bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters, go-karts, and other listed vehicle types.
The strong coil spring is described as wear- and corrosion-resistant, with elasticity intended to provide buffering and reduce vehicle vibration. Its 8 mm spring thickness and 1,500 lb maximum load give buyers concrete capacity and construction details to assess for their application. At 180 mm, the listed length is a key installation constraint, and the broad vehicle list does not replace checking the bike’s required shock dimensions or mounting arrangement.
- 180 mm shock length
- Stated maximum load of 1,500 lb
- 8 mm spring thickness
- Steel and aluminum-alloy construction
- No rebound, damping, or lockout adjustment is listed.
Skip it if you want adjustable damping; JFOYH’s EXA Form 291R lists adjustable damping and multiple eye-to-eye lengths.
Consider this coil shock for a listed bicycle or other vehicle application where its 180 mm length and stated 1,500 lb maximum load fit the need. The supplied details do not specify adjustment controls, so prioritize those requirements before selecting it.
Full product details
| Brand | Tongze |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, Bicycle, Go Kart, Motorcycle, Snowmobile, UTV |
| Included Components | Comes with housing |
| Manufacturer | Tongze |
| Part Number | TZ203159 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30-day Warranty |
| Material | Steel, Aluminium Alloy |
| Model Number | 180mm-1500lbs |
Listed on Amazon as: 180mm 1500LBS Mountain Bike Rear Shock Absorber: MTB Rear Shock with Adjustable Coil Spring, Widely Fits for Bicycle/E-Bike/Electric Scooter/Go-kart/Etc
View on Amazon
#10
10. RockShox Vivid Coil Ultimate
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Bicycle
Best for: Downhill coil-damper tunability.
Why it ranks #10: Its downhill-focused Vivid Coil platform has a 230 x 65 mm size and adjustable damping, but the listing emphasizes downhill performance over mixed all-mountain use.
The TouchDown RC2T damper emphasizes sensitivity off the top while remaining stable and supportive through travel, targeting riders seeking a tunable downhill coil shock. RockShox also lists adjustable hydraulic bottom-out behavior, providing a control for managing the end of the stroke on demanding terrain.
RockShox describes the position-sensitive TouchDown RC2T as combining initial suppleness with support through the travel, a balance relevant to downhill riding on varied impacts. Adjustable hydraulic bottom out adds another tuning dimension near the end of the stroke, while the listing highlights the Vivid Coil Ultimate’s downhill performance and tunability. The product is specified at 230 x 65 mm, so buyers need a frame requiring that eye-to-eye and stroke configuration.
- TouchDown RC2T damper
- Adjustable hydraulic bottom out
- Position-sensitive response through travel
- 230 x 65 mm listed size
- The listed 230 x 65 mm size limits fit to frames requiring that configuration.
Skip it if you need a 210 x 55 mm air shock; RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 lists that size with adjustable bottom-out control.
This is aimed at downhill riders who want a coil shock with position-sensitive damping and adjustable hydraulic bottom out. Its 230 x 65 mm specification is the key boundary: choose it only when that size matches the frame.
Full product details
| Brand | RockShox |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle |
| Part Number | 00.4118.455.000 |
| Model Number | 00.4118.455.000 |
| Style | Modern |
| Style Name | Modern |
Listed on Amazon as: RockShox Vivid Coil Ultimate RC2T Rear Shock – 230 x 65 mm, Reb 55 / Comp 30, L/O2, Standard, C1, Black
View on AmazonCheck the shock dimensions before ordering
A shock can have the right general category and still be incompatible if its eye-to-eye length, stroke, or mounting hardware differs from the frame requirement. The listings show why size labels need close attention: the MEROCA AO-38RC and DNM AO-8RC list 190 x 50 mm, while the MEROCA AO-6 lists 190 x 51 mm. Those numbers are not interchangeable assumptions; verify both dimensions against the bike maker’s specification.
Some listings also name bushings, such as the catazer AO-6’s 8 mm x 24 mm DU bushings, while others provide different or incomplete hardware details. Do not infer fit from broad claims such as suitable for mountain bikes or e-bikes.
Also confirm clearance and mounting width with the exact frame configuration. If a listing offers several size choices, select the required size rather than treating the range as proof that every option fits your bike.
Air adjustment and lockout involve trade-offs
Air shocks in this group offer pressure adjustment, but only some listings also describe rebound or lockout controls. The MEROCA AO-6 lists pressure adjustment up to 250 psi, while the AO-38RC lists up to 270 psi plus rebound and lockout. The catazer AO-39RC adds three lockout positions, described for road, light off-road, and rough off-road use.
These features can help a rider tailor the shock to changing terrain, but a lockout setting is not a substitute for confirming the shock’s fit or setup. The coil listings offer a different trade-off: the JFOYH EXA Form 291R lists damping adjustment and spring-load options, while the Tongze listing emphasizes a 1500 lb maximum load without comparable adjustment detail.
The supplied information does not establish a universal air-versus-coil winner, so weigh adjustment needs against the exact frame and rider setup.
How to Choose an All-Mountain Rear Shock
Eye-to-eye length and stroke
Start by matching both eye-to-eye length and stroke to the shock specified for your frame. The products span several configurations: the DNM AO-38RC lists 190 x 50 mm, the MEROCA AO-6 lists 190 x 51 mm, and the RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 is 210 x 55 mm. Other listings offer multiple lengths, including the catazer AO-6’s 100, 125, 150, 165, and 190 mm choices.
These options serve different frame designs, not interchangeable preferences. Riders replacing a known shock should match the existing dimensions and verify mounting hardware; buyers without that information should consult their frame documentation before choosing.
A longer listed size is not automatically a better all-mountain choice.
Air or coil spring
Choose the spring type your frame and riding setup support, then check its adjustment range and load requirements. Air options include the MEROCA AO-38RC, with pressure adjustment up to 270 psi, and the catazer AO-6, listed up to 250 psi. Coil options include the JFOYH EXA Form 291R with listed 650, 1000, and 1500 lb choices, and the Tongze 180 mm shock with a stated 1500 lb maximum load.
The figures describe different product details and should not be compared as equivalent spring-rate measurements. Air may suit riders who want pressure adjustment; the listed coil choices may suit someone whose frame and setup call for a spring.
Confirm compatibility and required spring specification first.
Damping controls for your terrain
Look for the controls that match how often your riding shifts between climbing, flowing trail, and rough descents. The MEROCA AO-38RC lists rebound, lockout, and air-pressure adjustment; the DNM AO-8RC lists rebound and three-step lockout. The catazer AO-39RC describes three lockout positions for road, light off-road, and rough off-road conditions.
By contrast, the MEROCA AO-6 focuses on air pressure adjustment, and its listing does not specify rebound control. Riders who want a single shock for mixed terrain may prefer the broader stated adjustment set, while riders who need a simpler pressure-adjustable replacement may favor the AO-6.
Match the control features to your use, but do not assume they compensate for an incorrect size.
Which Rear Shock Fits Your All-Mountain Riding?
For mixed XC and trail riding with multiple adjustment controls, choose the MEROCA AO-38RC, ranked first for its stated air-pressure, rebound, and lockout adjustments. If your frame calls for 190 x 50 mm and you want rebound plus three-step lockout, the DNM AO-8RC is a close alternative. For an enduro or E-MTB setup that matches 210 x 55 mm, consider the RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 and its independent low- and high-speed compression adjustments.
Riders prioritizing several lockout positions can look at the catazer AO-39RC. Choose the MEROCA AO-6 or catazer AO-6 only when its specific dimensions match your frame.
The coil options are alternatives when the bike requires a coil setup; verify spring needs before selecting one.
Related Buying Guides
- Best All Mountain Tires
- Best Rear Suspension Mountain Bike
- Best Rear Shocks For Lifted Trucks
- Best Rear Shocks For Street Glide
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure eye-to-eye length and stroke on my current rear shock?
Measure eye-to-eye from the center of one mounting bolt to the center of the other with the shock installed and the bike unloaded. Stroke is the distance the shock shaft can move, not the shock’s overall length. Check the shock markings or manufacturer documentation, and confirm both dimensions against your frame requirements.
How can I tell whether my frame needs an air or coil shock and what spring rate?
Check your frame or bike manufacturer’s specifications to confirm whether it accepts an air or coil shock and to find the required spring rate, if applicable. The listed products include both air and coil options, but their titles do not establish compatibility or the correct spring rate for your bike and riding needs.
Do I need different bushings or mounting hardware to install a replacement shock?
You may need compatible mounting hardware or bushings; confirm the required width, diameter, and hardware type for your frame before ordering. A shock’s eye-to-eye length and stroke do not establish mounting-hardware compatibility. Check your bike documentation or compare the existing hardware, and have a qualified mechanic verify fit if uncertain.
How should I compare the adjustment features on these shocks?
Match the controls to your priorities and frame fit. The MEROCA AO-38RC lists air-pressure, rebound, and lockout adjustments; the DNM AO-8RC lists lockout; and the RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 lists independent low- and high-speed compression adjustments. These features do not replace checking dimensions and mounting compatibility.
What should I verify before choosing a shock for an enduro or E-MTB setup?
First confirm the frame’s required shock dimensions and mounting hardware. The listed RockShox Vivid Ultimate D1 is 210 x 55 mm and is identified in the editorial verdict as an option for a matching enduro or E-MTB setup. Verify that your frame calls for those dimensions and check any suspension requirements before choosing it.
Final Words
Start with your frame’s required eye-to-eye length, stroke, and mounting hardware; the dimensions in a product title alone do not confirm fit. For mixed XC and trail use with multiple stated controls, the MEROCA AO-38RC is the lead choice. Consider the DNM AO-8RC for matching 190 x 50 mm fit, or the Vivid Ultimate D1 for matching 210 x 55 mm fit and compression adjustment.
Choose coil options only when your bike calls for coil and the spring needs are confirmed.


