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I currently have an air shock and was just wondering what you guys think of coil shocks on a mega and if it is worth it over a standard air shock ?
I think the answer is usually down to what type of riding you typically do. One isn't better than the other though the shock tune and quality will also affect the difference.
Hello I do a mixture of trail/enduro as well as the odd downhill what would you choose ?
I have a V4 Mega, and do similar riding to yourself, off piste stuff, local DH trails.
I put a Kitsuma coil on it while the Fox air shock was off for a warranty appraisal. It took a few rides to get it dialled in (got bucked over the bars first ride!), but now its setup suitably, there's no way I'm putting the air shock back on. Completely subjective, but I found that the coil soaks up chatter and rooty, rattly sections better, and seems to offer more traction over rough terrain and when braking. It gave me a tangible confidence boost, and according to strava I'm a fair bit faster going downhill since switching to coil.
The only downsides really IMO, would be that smoother flow trails are more fun on air, and the coil shock bobs more when climbing (though the kitsuma has a climb switch that negates this - you just have to remember to use it)
I'd agree with the above, if you like more rocky, gravity orientated riding then coil is probably better. Air is obviously lighter and easier to adjust (air pressure Vs new spring) and will naturally ramp up more so can feel more poppy but less plush.
If you've never tried a coil then I'd definitely recommend it
I've also ridden the V4 mega with coil and air shocks.
A good coil shock definitely gives the frame an extra edge for DH riding and grip and doesn't necessarily have to make it any less playful or poppy on smoother jumpy trails so long as you simply spend time setting the shock up for that sort of riding. Infact. Coil shocks having a more linear spring rate and being less affected by heat can mean rebound is more controlled. (rebound setting and support being very important for giving a bike good pop). Contrary to what you read on forums spring rate ramp alone isn't actually what makes air shocks feel poppier to most people. A poorly set-up air shock can also give pretty awful support and pop.
I'd suggest a vivid coil. A great shock which won't break the bank and also happens to be a lot easier to set up well than many other far "fancier" shocks