Upgrading your bike’s suspension system is one of the best ways to enhance your overall riding experience. The Manitou Mara Inline Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock is a high-performance shock that delivers outstanding damping performance and adjustability. In this guide, we will walk through the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of the Mara Inline Trunnion [paid link], helping you maximize its performance.

Installation of the Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock

Installing the Manitou Mara Inline [paid link] Trunnion rear shock is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure proper function. Follow these steps to install the shock on your bike:

1. Prepare Your Bike
   • Remove the existing rear shock from your frame, ensuring that all hardware and bolts are removed properly.
   • Clean the mounting area to prevent any dirt or debris from interfering with the installation of the new shock.
2. Mount the Mara Inline [paid link] Trunnion
   • Position the Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock in the trunnion mount on your bike frame.
   • Align the mounting holes on the shock with those on the frame.
   • Insert the bolts through the shock and frame, ensuring that they are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications. Be cautious not to overtighten the bolts, as this could damage the shock or frame.
3. Install the Eyelet Mount
   • If necessary, attach the eyelet mount to the shock’s lower mount. This will provide the required linkage for the shock’s full range of motion.
   • Use the correct torque settings to ensure the mounting hardware is tight and secure.
4. Recheck Alignment
   • Once everything is installed, double-check the alignment of the shock to ensure it is mounted correctly and does not interfere with the frame or other components.
5. Test the Suspension
   • Gently compress the suspension by pressing down on the bike’s rear end. Verify that the shock moves smoothly and that no binding occurs during compression.

Adjusting the Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock

The Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock offers a range of adjustments to customize your ride. Here are the key adjustments to consider:

1. Sag Adjustment

• The correct sag is essential for proper shock performance. For the Mara Inline Trunnion, use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure until you reach the recommended sag percentage. Typically, aim for around 25-30% sag for most riders.
• To measure sag, mark your shock’s stanchion with a zip tie and sit on the bike in your riding position. Measure how much the zip tie has moved to determine your sag.

2. Rebound Damping

• Adjust the rebound damping to control how quickly the shock returns to its extended position after compression. Turning the rebound knob clockwise increases the damping, while counterclockwise decreases it.
• Set the rebound damping based on trail conditions. Slower rebound helps absorb big hits, while faster rebound provides a more active feel for smoother terrain.

3. Compression Damping

• The Mara Inline Trunnion features both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments.
• Adjusting the low-speed compression controls how the shock behaves under slower impacts, such as when pedaling or navigating small obstacles.
• The high-speed compression is responsible for handling larger impacts like big drops or aggressive riding. Make small adjustments based on how the shock performs during these events.

4. Air Volume Adjustments

• If your shock includes an air volume spacer, it allows you to fine-tune the shock’s progression. Adding volume spacers increases the shock’s progression, while removing them provides a more linear feel.

Maintenance of the Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock

Maintaining your Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock is essential to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Regular maintenance helps prevent premature wear and keeps your suspension functioning smoothly.

1. Cleaning the Shock

• After each ride, clean the shock with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris that may accumulate on the shock’s body.
• Pay particular attention to the seals and bushings. If dirt gets trapped here, it can cause friction and degrade the shock’s performance over time.

2. Inspecting the Seals

• Regularly inspect the seals for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice oil leakage or the seals appear cracked, it’s time to replace them.
• To ensure the seals are working properly, check them periodically by compressing the shock and checking for smooth motion.

3. Air Pressure Check

• As the air pressure in your shock can change due to temperature fluctuations, it is crucial to check the air pressure regularly. Use a shock pump to adjust the pressure according to your sag requirements.

4. Lubricating the Bushings

• Lubricate the shock’s bushings and mounting hardware every few months or after muddy rides to ensure smooth movement and prevent wear on the components.

5. Full Service

• Every 100-150 hours of riding or annually, consider sending your Mara Inline Trunnion shock for a full service. This includes draining old oil, replacing seals, and recharging the shock with fresh oil to maintain peak [paid link] performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper installation and maintenance, issues may arise. Below are some common problems and solutions for the Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock.

1. Excessive Rebound or Slow Return

• If the shock feels too slow or fast when returning to its fully extended position, check the rebound adjustment. It may be set too high or low, affecting the shock’s ability to return smoothly.

2. Squishy or Soft Feel

• If the shock feels too soft and bottoms out frequently, increase the air pressure to add more support. Additionally, consider adjusting the compression settings to add more resistance during compression.

3. Oil Leakage

• Oil leakage from the shock is often a sign of a damaged seal. Inspect the seals carefully and replace them if necessary.

4. Loss of Performance

• If the shock has lost performance, such as reduced dampening, it could be due to dirty internals or air pressure loss. Check the air pressure and clean or service the shock if required.

Customizing the Mara Inline Trunnion for Better Performance

To optimize the performance of the Mara Inline Trunnion, consider adjusting it based on your specific riding style and terrain:

1. For Aggressive Riders
   • Use higher compression settings and adjust the air volume to make the shock more progressive for big hits and aggressive riding.
   • Increased rebound damping will help control the shock’s return after heavy compressions.
2. For Enduro or All-Mountain Riders
   • A balanced approach to both low-speed and high-speed compression damping will provide the ideal mix of plushness and support.
   • Make sure the air pressure is tuned to match your weight and riding style for consistent performance over long, challenging rides.
3. For Cross-Country Riders
   • Set the shock to a firmer compression setting for pedaling efficiency. A lower air pressure can help absorb trail chatter while reducing energy loss when climbing.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Manitou Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock is compatible with a wide range of modern mountain bike frames. However, to ensure optimal performance, it’s important to match it with other compatible components, such as your frame’s suspension linkage and drivetrain system.

• Ensure that your frame has a trunnion-style shock mount to accommodate the Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock.
• Check that your rear derailleur, cassette, and chain are functioning smoothly, as a poorly maintained drivetrain can affect the performance of the rear shock.
• Additionally, verify that your bike’s front suspension is balanced with the rear shock’s performance to maintain an even ride feel.