REAR SUSPENSION · FRAME · LINKAGE
Follow eye-to-eye length, stroke, mounting hardware and tune together. A size match is only the first connection.
The Hightower 3 MY23 reference specifies 210 × 55 mm and 30 × 8 mm hardware at both ends, with the rear mount bearing-compatible. Preserve the original frame-approved shock and hardware where possible.
Frame specification & exploded diagramsEye-to-eye measures mounting-center distance; stroke describes shock movement. Neither is the bike’s rear-wheel travel. Standard-eyelet and trunnion shocks are different mounting formats.
The reference frame’s published builds include Super Deluxe air shocks. For a replacement candidate, RS-SDLX-ULT-C1 lists 210 × 55 among its sizes and multiple eyelet/damper options. Confirm the exact part number, eyelet configuration, tune and clearance with the frame maker.
Super Deluxe C1 variants & serviceThe frame archive includes a FLOAT Performance DPS 210 × 55 build. Use the original shock’s FOX ID to recover its actual tune and configuration. This is evidence of that factory setup, not approval of every FOX shock with the same dimensions.
FOX ID lookup & technical supportA coil conversion changes more than the spring. Santa Cruz’s current approval list names Hightower v4, not this v3 reference; it directs owners of unlisted models to Rider Support. Leave coil fit unverified here.
Santa Cruz coil-fit boundary| Connection | Selection / requirement | What completes it |
|---|---|---|
| Shock ends | Correct reducers, bushings or bearing hardware for the selected eyelets | Do not force standard bushings into a bearing mount or assume generic reducers are equivalent. |
| Pivots and links | Frame-specific links, bearings, axles, spacers, shields and flip chips | Use the exploded diagram and its specified grease/thread treatment for each location. |
| Clearance | Reservoir, adjusters, air valve, linkage and frame throughout travel | A qualified fitter checks the complete movement and access before approving a replacement. |
| Service parts | Exact shock generation and frame-bearing specification | A bearing number alone does not settle seals, fit, hardware or assembly order. |
Use the frame maker’s setup guidance with the identified shock. Record rider mass with kit, pressure, sag, rebound, compression and volume-spacer configuration. Pressure charts are starting points, not fit approval or a universal setting.
Use the shock’s service manual for air-can and damper work, tools, fluids and intervals. Do not open a pressurized unit using a generic procedure.
Manufacturer sources checked September 28, 2026. Product examples and interface comparisons are identified separately from bike-specific fit. No assembled custom bike has been tested by iCyclery.
