The Monarch RT3 from RockShox is a high-performance rear shock designed for cross-country and trail bikes. This rear shock is known for its reliability, adjustability, and plush ride. Like any high-end suspension component, it requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential tasks required to maintain, adjust, and troubleshoot your Monarch RT3 rear shock, ensuring that it performs at its best for as long as possible.

Tools Required

• 5mm hex wrench
• 2.5mm hex wrench
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Shock pump (for adjusting air pressure)
• 10mm socket wrench (for air can removal)
• Clean rag or towel
• Suspension fluid (for maintenance)
• Grease (for components that require lubrication)
• Seal driver tool (optional)

Installation and Setup

Installing the Monarch RT3 rear shock is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure proper alignment and mounting. The shock is designed to fit most modern trail and cross-country bikes, but always confirm compatibility with your frame’s dimensions and suspension setup before installation.

1. Position the Shock: Place the Monarch RT3 into the shock mount on your frame, ensuring that the shock’s eyelets line up with the corresponding mounts on the frame.
2. Attach the Shock: Use the appropriate hardware to attach the shock to the frame. Tighten the mounting bolts to the recommended torque settings provided by RockShox (typically around 30–35 Nm). Ensure the shock is securely fastened but avoid overtightening, which could damage the frame or shock.
3. Set Air Pressure: Using a shock pump, adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding style. The Monarch RT3 typically has a recommended air pressure range listed on the shock itself or in the user manual. Start with the pressure recommendations and fine-tune based on how the shock feels on your ride.
4. Initial Setup: Set the rebound and compression damping adjustments to a middle setting. This is a good starting point for tuning the suspension to your preferences. You can adjust these settings after a few rides to dial in the shock performance.

Maintenance and Service

The Monarch RT3 is a durable and low-maintenance shock, but regular service is crucial for extending its lifespan and maintaining peak performance.

Air Can Maintenance

Performing an air can service at least once a year, or more often depending on usage, is essential. This service involves removing the air can to clean and lubricate the internals.

1. Remove the Shock from the Bike: For safety and ease, remove the rear shock from the bike. Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Keep the hardware in a safe place for reinstallation.
2. Remove the Air Can: Use a 10mm socket wrench to remove the air can from the shock body. Be sure to release any air pressure from the shock before doing this to prevent any damage or injury.
3. Clean the Components: Once the air can is removed, clean all parts with a clean rag to remove any dirt or debris. Ensure that the air sleeve and piston shaft are in good condition with no signs of wear.
4. Lubricate the Shaft: Apply a small amount of suspension-specific oil or grease to the shaft. This will help maintain a smooth, consistent performance and prevent the shock from drying out. Use suspension fluid that is recommended by RockShox.
5. Reassemble the Shock: Once the air can is clean and the shock shaft is lubricated, carefully reassemble the air can to the shock body. Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque settings.
6. Reinstall the Shock: Reinstall the shock onto the bike, making sure to align the mounting holes correctly. Tighten the bolts to the proper torque settings.

Rebound and Compression Adjustment

The Monarch RT3 features a three-position compression adjustment and a rebound adjustment. Properly adjusting these settings can dramatically improve your bike’s handling and performance on different types of terrain.

1. Rebound Adjustment: The rebound adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compressing. Turning the knob clockwise (clockwise) increases rebound damping, slowing the return, while turning it counterclockwise (anticlockwise) makes the rebound faster. Adjust the rebound to your liking based on your riding style and terrain.
2. Compression Adjustment: The Monarch RT3 features a three-position compression lever: open, medium, and firm. These settings control how the shock compresses under different impacts.
   • Open: Provides maximum shock movement for rough and technical terrain.
   • Medium: Offers a good balance of comfort and control for most conditions.
   • Firm: Reduces shock movement for smoother terrain or when climbing, providing better pedaling efficiency.

It’s recommended to start with the medium setting and adjust based on your preference for comfort, efficiency, or control.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Monarch RT3 is generally reliable, occasional issues may arise. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Shock Not Holding Air

If your Monarch RT3 is losing air, the first step is to check for leaks. Inspect the valve and air can for any visible damage. If there is a leak at the valve, you may need to replace the valve core or seal. If the air can is damaged, it may need to be replaced or serviced by a professional.

2. Lack of Rebound Control

If the shock feels too slow to rebound or does not return quickly enough, it may be due to dirt or debris inside the shock. Performing an air can maintenance service and checking the rebound adjustment knob for proper function is recommended.

3. No Compression Adjustments

If you are unable to adjust the compression settings, it could indicate an issue with the adjustment lever or the internal components of the shock. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the compression damper or consult with a suspension specialist.

Customization and Optimization

While the Monarch RT3 comes pre-set with a variety of adjustment options, riders may want to further customize the shock to optimize it for their specific needs.

1. Changing the Air Pressure: Fine-tuning your air pressure can significantly affect the performance of the shock. If you feel the bike is bottoming out too often, increase the air pressure. Conversely, if you’re experiencing a harsh ride, decrease the air pressure.
2. Adjusting Compression Damping: Experiment with different compression settings depending on your riding style. If you ride on smooth trails, use the firm setting to enhance pedaling efficiency. For rougher trails, the open setting will give you a more comfortable and controlled ride.
3. Rebound Fine-Tuning: Adjust the rebound based on terrain. Faster rebound is ideal for smoother surfaces, while slower rebound is better for technical descents or rough trails.

Comparison with Other Rear Shocks

The Monarch RT3 competes with other popular rear shocks, such as the Fox Float DPS and the RockShox Super Deluxe. While the Float DPS offers similar performance, the Monarch RT3 is known for its lighter weight and more affordable price point. The Super Deluxe offers slightly more aggressive compression damping options, which may be preferred by riders looking for more control on steep, technical terrain.

The Monarch RT3 stands out for riders who prioritize reliability and ease of maintenance without compromising on performance. It’s a great option for cross-country and trail riders looking for a shock that can handle a variety of conditions without excessive maintenance costs.

Understanding Compatibility

When upgrading or replacing a rear shock, compatibility with other components is critical. The Monarch RT3 is designed to be compatible with most modern frames, but it’s important to ensure the shock matches the frame’s requirements in terms of eyelet size, stroke length, and mounting hardware. Be sure to consult your frame manufacturer’s specifications before installing the shock.

Also, verify that the shock’s travel matches the intended application. The Monarch RT3 is suitable for cross-country and trail bikes with rear suspension travel between 100mm and 140mm. Ensure that your frame’s geometry can accommodate the travel range and mounting dimensions of the Monarch RT3.

By maintaining your Monarch RT3 rear shock, adjusting it for your riding style, and ensuring compatibility with your bike, you can extend the lifespan of the shock and enjoy improved performance on the trail. Regular service and adjustments are key to ensuring that your ride stays smooth, responsive, and reliable.