The RockShox Monarch RT3 is a highly popular rear shock known for its versatility and reliability. It is designed to provide smooth and consistent performance for a wide range of riders, from cross-country enthusiasts to trail and enduro riders. While the Monarch RT3 performs well out of the box, it is essential to tune it correctly to maximize its potential based on your riding style, terrain, and bike setup. This guide will help you fine-tune the Monarch RT3 to get the most out of your suspension.
Tools Required
- Shock pump (with accurate gauge)
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- 2.5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Flathead screwdriver
- Rags or towel (for cleaning)
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Needle-nose pliers (if required for adjustments)
- Suspension fluid (if performing a full service)
Understanding the Monarch RT3
Before diving into tuning, it is important to understand the Monarch RT3’s features. The shock is equipped with a three-position “Open, Pedal, Lock” adjuster, allowing riders to modify the shock’s performance depending on terrain conditions. The shock is also outfitted with a rebound adjuster and a compression adjuster that help refine the ride feel. It uses a solo air spring system, which allows you to adjust air pressure for a more personalized ride feel.
Installation and Setup
Proper installation is critical for ensuring the longevity and performance of your Monarch RT3. Here are the basic installation steps:
- Remove Old Shock (if replacing): Use the 5mm Allen wrench to remove the mounting bolts of the previous shock. Ensure the bike is securely supported on a stand before starting.
- Install the Monarch RT3: Align the eyelet at the top of the shock with the bike frame’s mounting point. Secure the shock in place using the appropriate bolts and torque them to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.
- Set Initial Air Pressure: Use a shock pump to set the initial air pressure. The Monarch RT3 has a solo air spring, meaning both positive and negative chambers are inflated with a single valve. Start with a baseline pressure of 200 psi (adjust based on rider weight and preferences).
- Check for Sag: Once the shock is installed, sit on the bike and check for proper sag. Typically, you should aim for 25-30% of the shock’s travel to be used by your body weight.
Fine-tuning the Air Pressure
Adjust the air pressure in the shock based on your body weight, riding style, and preferences. A good rule of thumb is to set the pressure based on the recommended sag percentage (25-30%). To do this:
- Increase the pressure if the sag is too deep.
- Decrease the pressure if the shock feels too stiff or doesn’t provide enough small-bump compliance.
Rebound Adjustment
The Monarch RT3 features a rebound adjuster that controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. The ideal rebound setting ensures a smooth, controlled return without creating a “bucking” sensation.
- Find the Rebound Adjuster: Located at the bottom of the shock, the rebound adjuster is usually a red knob or dial.
- Adjust for Desired Speed:
- Fast Rebound: If the shock returns too quickly, it will feel harsh and unsettled, especially on rough terrain. Turn the rebound adjuster counterclockwise to slow it down.
- Slow Rebound: If the shock feels too sluggish and doesn’t extend quickly enough after compression, turn the rebound adjuster clockwise to speed it up.
The key is to adjust the rebound so that the shock feels responsive but doesn’t bounce uncontrollably. A good test is to bounce the bike and observe how the shock reacts. If it feels like it’s not settling correctly after each compression, adjust accordingly.
Compression Adjustment
The Monarch RT3 also has a compression adjuster that modifies the shock’s response to impacts. It allows you to control how the shock compresses under force, which is crucial for optimizing performance on different types of terrain.
- Find the Compression Adjuster: The compression adjuster is located on the damper body and can be turned using a flathead screwdriver.
- Choose Your Setting:
- Open: For maximum sensitivity and compliance on rough terrain, the “Open” setting is ideal.
- Pedal: When you need a firmer setting to reduce pedal bob on smoother surfaces, use the “Pedal” setting.
- Lock: The “Lock” setting completely stiffens the shock, which is useful for climbing or smooth, uninterrupted riding.
For cross-country riders, the “Pedal” setting offers an excellent balance of efficiency and comfort, while enduro riders may prefer the “Open” setting to tackle rough descents with more control.
Maintenance and Servicing
To keep your Monarch RT3 performing at its best, regular maintenance is required. The following steps outline the general maintenance procedure:
- Clean the Shock: After every ride, wipe down the shock with a rag to remove dirt and debris. This prevents grime from entering the shock and causing wear.
- Inspect for Leaks: Periodically check the seals around the shock body for any signs of oil leakage. If you notice any issues, it may be time to replace the seals.
- Service Intervals: RockShox recommends a full service every 50 hours of riding or once a year, whichever comes first. During a full service, the shock will be disassembled, cleaned, and re-lubed with fresh suspension fluid.
- Check Air Pressure Regularly: The air pressure in the shock can change over time due to temperature fluctuations or small air leaks. It’s important to check and adjust the pressure before every ride.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Poor Rebound Performance: If the rebound feels too fast or slow, recheck the adjuster and make sure it is not stuck or clogged. Also, verify that the shock has enough oil inside. If necessary, perform a service to replace any worn parts.
- Suspension Bottoming Out: If the shock is bottoming out frequently, consider increasing the air pressure. Additionally, check the compression settings to ensure the shock isn’t too soft.
- Noise During Operation: A creaking or squeaking sound may indicate worn seals or lack of lubrication in the shock. Clean the shock thoroughly and apply lubrication to the shock’s moving parts to eliminate the noise.
- Sag Too High or Too Low: Adjusting the air pressure to achieve the proper sag is essential. If you continue to struggle with achieving the right sag, ensure the shock’s air chambers are properly balanced.
Customization for Better Performance
The Monarch RT3 offers several customization options to improve its performance based on your specific riding needs:
- Air Pressure: Fine-tuning the air pressure to suit your weight and riding style is one of the most effective ways to customize the Monarch RT3.
- Compression Settings: Depending on the type of riding you do, adjusting the compression to suit the terrain is essential for achieving the best performance.
- Spring Rate: If you feel that the air spring isn’t providing the right feel, consider adjusting the pressure or switching to a different shock with a different spring rate.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Monarch RT3 is compatible with most modern mountain bike drivetrains, including 1x and 2x setups. Ensure that the shock’s mount type matches your frame’s requirements. For example, some frames may require different mounting hardware or adapters. Check compatibility before purchasing replacement parts.
Additionally, when pairing the Monarch RT3 with a bike frame, consider the overall suspension design. Some frames may require a shock with a specific eye-to-eye length or stroke length to maintain proper suspension geometry.
Conclusion
The RockShox Monarch RT3 is a reliable and versatile rear shock, but to get the most out of it, proper tuning and maintenance are essential. By adjusting the air pressure, rebound, and compression settings, you can tailor the shock to your specific needs. Regular maintenance and periodic servicing will ensure that your shock continues to perform at its best for many seasons. By following these tuning and maintenance tips, you’ll be able to optimize your Monarch RT3 for a more enjoyable and smoother ride on any terrain.