The Monarch R rear shock from RockShox is an excellent choice for riders looking to fine-tune their suspension setup for optimal comfort and performance. Designed for versatility and durability, the Monarch R offers riders the ability to adjust their shock settings to suit their specific riding style and terrain. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of tuning your Monarch R shock, covering everything from installation and adjustments to troubleshooting common issues, and ensuring compatibility with your bike’s drivetrain system.

Tools Required

Before beginning the tuning process, make sure you have the following tools available:

• Shock pump (accurate to 1 psi)
• 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• 2mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Soapy water (for checking air leaks)
• Rags for cleaning
• Bicycle stand (optional, but useful for suspension work)

Installation of the Monarch R Rear Shock

Proper installation of your Monarch R shock is crucial for ensuring that it functions correctly. Follow these steps for a smooth setup:

1. Prepare the Shock Mounting Hardware: The Monarch R typically uses standard hardware, but make sure you have the correct mounting hardware for your bike’s frame. The shock will usually come with either a 8mm or 10mm eyelet depending on your frame.
2. Install the Shock on the Frame:
   • First, align the shock with the mounting holes on your bike’s frame.
   • Insert the shock into the frame, ensuring that the bushings and washers are correctly placed on either side of the shock eyelets.
   • Use the 5mm Allen wrench to tighten the mounting bolts. Make sure to torque them to the manufacturer’s specified settings, typically around 10–15 Nm, depending on the bike frame.
3. Connect the Air Valve: The Monarch R uses an air spring, so attach the air pump to the valve and check that it is properly seated. If necessary, lightly grease the valve to ensure an airtight seal.
4. Final Check: Once the shock is secured, make sure everything is aligned and that there are no obstructions that could impede shock movement.

Adjusting the Monarch R Rear Shock

The Monarch R rear shock features basic but effective adjustments that allow you to fine-tune your ride. These include air pressure, rebound damping, and external compression settings.

1. Setting Air Pressure

• Begin by determining the correct air pressure for your weight. RockShox typically provides a general guideline on their website or in the shock’s manual, but a good starting point is to set your air pressure at approximately 30% of your total body weight in pounds.
• Using your shock pump, inflate the shock until the correct air pressure is reached. Check the sag (how much the shock compresses under your weight) by sitting on your bike and assessing how much the shock compresses. Ideally, you want around 25-30% of the shock’s total travel to be used when you sit on the bike.

2. Adjusting Rebound Damping

• The rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns to its normal position after compression. To adjust:
  • Turn the rebound knob (located at the base of the shock) clockwise to slow down the rebound or counterclockwise to increase it.
  • A good rule of thumb is to start with a neutral setting and adjust depending on your riding preference. Slower rebound works well for rougher terrain, while a faster rebound is better for smoother trails.

3. Adjusting Compression Damping

• Compression damping controls how much the shock resists compression under load. On the Monarch R, you typically have an external compression adjustment knob that adjusts the low-speed compression.
  • Turn the compression knob clockwise to increase compression damping for firmer support or counterclockwise for a softer feel.
  • If you plan to ride technical terrain, try adjusting for firmer compression to prevent the shock from bottoming out. On smoother trails, a softer setting may improve comfort and traction.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Monarch R is a reliable shock, there are a few common issues that riders may encounter. Here are some solutions:

1. Shock Bottoming Out

• If your shock bottoms out too easily, it could be due to insufficient air pressure or improper compression settings.
  • Increase air pressure to the recommended setting.
  • Increase low-speed compression damping if you’re encountering this issue on rougher terrain.

2. No Rebound Control

• If the shock is not rebounding as expected, check if the rebound adjustment is set too slow. Turn the rebound knob counterclockwise to speed up the rebound.
• Ensure that there are no obstructions in the shock’s mechanism that could restrict movement.

3. Air Leaks

• If the air pressure drops over time, it’s possible there is an air leak. Inspect the air valve for any damage and check the seals with soapy water. If bubbles appear around the valve, the seal may need to be replaced.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Monarch R offers several ways to fine-tune your setup beyond basic adjustments. Here are a few tips for optimizing your suspension:

• Spring Rate Adjustment: While the Monarch R doesn’t offer coil spring options, fine-tuning air pressure allows for an approximation of different spring rates. Heavier riders may need more air pressure to avoid bottoming out, while lighter riders should reduce air pressure for a more supple feel.
• Progression Tuning: The Monarch R uses an air spring with a linear progression, which can be adjusted with volume spacers. If you need more ramp-up at the end of the travel to prevent bottoming out, you can install volume spacers in the air chamber.
• Seals and Lubrication: Periodically service the shock by replacing seals and lubricating the air chamber. This helps maintain smooth operation and prevent wear over time.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Monarch R to other rear shocks in the same category, it stands out for its simplicity and ease of tuning. Compared to higher-end models like the Monarch Plus, the Monarch R lacks a more advanced high-speed compression adjustment. However, the Monarch R remains an excellent choice for riders who prioritize value and ease of use. Its straightforward features make it ideal for beginner to intermediate riders who want reliable performance without the complexity of more expensive shocks.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Monarch R is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames, especially those designed for cross-country or trail riding. It integrates seamlessly with 9, 10, or 11-speed drivetrains, as well as newer 12-speed systems. However, always double-check your bike’s frame specifications for shock compatibility, especially when considering travel length and mounting options.

When adjusting your shock, keep in mind that your suspension setup should complement the rest of your drivetrain. For example, if you use a more progressive suspension fork, you may want to adjust the Monarch R to be slightly softer to balance out the front and rear suspension. Likewise, pairing the Monarch R with a high-performance drivetrain will allow you to maximize its potential on aggressive trails.