The Manitou Mara Pro Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock is a high-performance rear suspension component designed for riders who demand precision and adaptability in their mountain biking experience. It is an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking to optimize their bike’s rear suspension, offering features that prioritize comfort, performance, and adjustability. This article covers everything you need to know about installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and customizing the Mara Pro Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock.
Installation of the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock
Installing the Mara Pro [paid link] Trunnion Rear Shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
1. Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 8mm allen key
- 5mm allen key
- Suspension grease
- 10mm open-end wrench
- Clean rag
- Ruler or caliper for measuring
2. Preparing the Shock
Before installing the shock, ensure that the rear triangle of your bike is clean and free from dirt or debris. The mounting points should be inspected for wear and tear to ensure compatibility with the Mara Pro [paid link] Trunnion.
3. Mounting the Shock
- Position the Mara Pro Trunnion shock into the rear suspension mounting point on the frame. This shock features a trunnion mount system, which typically includes a bushing on each side that fits into the frame’s shock mounts.
- Carefully align the shock with the mounting holes. Ensure the shock is oriented correctly, paying attention to the direction of the compression and rebound adjustments.
- Insert the mounting bolts into the bushings, ensuring that they pass through smoothly without resistance.
4. Tightening the Bolts
Using a torque wrench [paid link], tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. This is crucial to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening, which can lead to damage or performance issues. Typically, the torque setting for the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock’s mounting bolts is around 7–10 Nm.
5. Final Inspection
Once the shock is mounted, give it a final check. Ensure that it moves freely through its full travel without any binding. Also, verify that the shock is securely fastened and that all bolts are correctly torqued.
Adjustment of the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock
The Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock offers a range of adjustments to fine-tune the suspension to your specific riding style. Here’s how you can make those adjustments effectively.
Rebound Adjustment
The rebound adjustment dial located at the bottom of the shock controls how quickly the shock returns to its extended position after compression. To adjust:
- Turn the dial clockwise to slow the rebound, which is useful for maintaining stability over rough terrain.
- Turn the dial counterclockwise to speed up the rebound, providing quicker return for a more responsive feel.
Compression Adjustment
The Mara Pro Trunnion shock comes with an adjustable compression damping feature. The compression knob allows you to adjust the resistance as the shock compresses under load. A firmer compression setting is beneficial for aggressive riding, as it helps prevent bottoming out on large impacts.
- Adjust the knob to a firmer setting for rougher, more technical trails.
- For smoother, less demanding trails, a softer setting may be preferable.
Air Pressure
The air pressure in the shock determines the overall stiffness and support. It’s essential to adjust the air pressure based on your weight, riding style, and terrain.
- Use a shock pump to add or release air. Generally, riders will start by setting the air pressure to a baseline recommended by the manufacturer and then adjust according to their needs.
- To set the correct air pressure, ensure you achieve the correct sag (typically around 25% of the shock’s total travel).
Maintenance of the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock
Maintaining the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock is essential to keep it performing at its best for years. Here’s how you can maintain it effectively.
Regular Cleaning
After every ride, it’s important to clean the shock and its mounting points to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Use a clean rag to wipe down the shock body, focusing on the seals and moving parts. Make sure that no debris gets into the air valve or the rebound/compression dials.
Air Spring and Seals
Check the air pressure regularly and ensure the seals are in good condition. If the seals are damaged or worn, replace them immediately to prevent air loss and damage to the internal components. Replacing the seals once a year or after every 100 hours of riding can prolong the life of the shock.
Full Service
Manitou recommends servicing the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock at least once a year or after approximately 200 hours of riding. During the service, the oil inside the shock is replaced, and the internal components are cleaned and lubricated. This service should ideally be performed by a professional mechanic to ensure the shock is fully reconditioned.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock
Though the Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock is known for its reliability, certain issues may arise over time. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them.
Shock Not Holding Air Pressure
If the shock is losing air pressure over time, the most likely cause is a worn or damaged seal. Inspect the seals for any visible cracks or abrasions. If the seals are intact, check the air valve for any dirt or debris that could be preventing it from sealing properly.
Poor Rebound Performance
If the shock’s rebound is not functioning correctly, it could be due to low oil levels or contamination inside the shock. In this case, a full service may be required to clean and refill the shock’s internals.
Bottoming Out Too Easily
If the shock is bottoming out frequently, check the air pressure. Increasing the air pressure slightly can provide better support and reduce the chances of bottoming out. Additionally, ensure that the compression settings are adjusted to suit your riding style and terrain.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
The Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock offers several ways to customize and optimize your riding experience.
Tuning Compression and Rebound
Fine-tuning the compression and rebound settings will help you achieve the ideal balance between comfort and performance. By adjusting these settings, you can make the shock more responsive on technical trails or provide a softer, smoother ride for endurance cycling.
Air Pressure Adjustments
As mentioned, adjusting the air pressure according to your weight and riding style is key to getting the most out of the Mara Pro Trunnion shock. Riders who focus on downhill or aggressive riding will benefit from a higher air pressure, while lighter riders or those on cross-country bikes might prefer a lower pressure setting.
Spring Rate Compatibility
While the Mara Pro Trunnion shock is versatile [paid link], pairing it with a compatible spring rate is essential for optimal performance. Manitou recommends specific spring rates based on rider weight, and this can be fine-tuned for different types of riding and terrain.
Comparison with Similar Models
When considering a rear shock, it’s important to compare the Mara Pro Trunnion with other options in the market to determine the best fit for your bike.
Mara Pro vs. Manitou Machete
The Manitou Machete is another popular rear shock from Manitou, designed for riders looking for a more budget-friendly option. While the Machete offers solid performance, the Mara Pro Trunnion provides superior adjustability and is specifically designed for riders who demand fine-tuned settings and more precise damping controls. The Mara Pro is the better choice for riders seeking an advanced, high-performance shock with extensive customization options.
Mara Pro vs. Fox Float X2
The Fox Float X2 is a competitor in the high-end rear shock market. While both shocks offer advanced features, the Mara Pro Trunnion stands out due to its trunnion mount, offering a more direct and stable connection to the frame. This makes the Mara Pro a better choice for riders who prioritize stability and responsiveness, especially on technical or aggressive trails. However, the Float X2 offers more complex adjustments for expert-level riders looking to tune every aspect of their suspension performance.
Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock is compatible with a wide range of modern mountain bike frames, but it is important to confirm that the shock’s mounting type (trunnion) matches your frame’s specifications. Most modern frames that are designed for high-performance suspension will be compatible with the Mara Pro Trunnion. However, checking compatibility with other drivetrain components, such as the shock’s linkage, is essential to ensure smooth integration.
By taking care to select compatible frame and shock components, you can optimize the performance and longevity of your Mara Pro Trunnion Rear Shock.