Santa Cruz Bicycles Rocker Link Kit Vala

You should consider replacing your rocker link if you notice play or creaking in the rear suspension that persists after tightening your pivot bolts. If the bearings feel gritty, notchy, or have developed noticeable side-to-side movement, this kit will restore the original stiffness and smooth action of your bike's rear end.

This specific kit, part number 29-27490, is designed exclusively for the Vala 1 AL and Vala 1 C frames. It is not compatible with other Santa Cruz models, so please verify your specific frame model before purchasing.

Yes, this kit includes the necessary high-quality sealed bearings already pressed into the rocker link. It is designed as a direct replacement to simplify your maintenance process.

If you are comfortable with basic suspension maintenance and have the correct tools, such as a torque wrench and hex keys, you can perform this installation yourself. However, it is critical to follow the official Santa Cruz technical documentation for torque specifications to ensure the suspension operates safely and correctly.

The kit uses 6902 LLU Max and 6900 LLU Max bearings because they are specifically engineered for suspension pivots. Unlike standard bearings, 'Max' bearings have a full complement of balls without a cage, which increases their load-carrying capacity and durability under the high-stress conditions of mountain biking.