Monarch RT3 (2016 Rapid Recovery)


Monarch RT3 2016 Rapid Recovery shock

Ride impressions

I'm comparing this shock to a 2015 Monarch RL .  The RL has a lever which gives you only two options - fully open and locked.  The lockout is excellent and really firm when engaged, but a big hit will still open the shock up.

"Lockout"

Compared to the RL, the RCT3 locked position is not as firm and doesn't give you that "hardtail" feel when sprinting out of the saddle.  In this respect, the RL's lockout position is excellent, whereas that on the RCT3 seems to be just a firmer version of the "pedal" setting.  If you want a proper lockout, go with the RL.

Pedal mode

Pedal mode seems to do what it supposed to.  Shock doesn't feel particularly firm, but there is a noticeable slow speed platform operating.  Breakaway force on this shock tune seems really soft, so works quite well on an Anthem where a lot of platform is not required because of the Maestro suspension design.

Open mode

The open mode feels fairly plush but surprisingly not as plush as the open position on the Monarch RL.  Perhaps with some more riding in its plushness will improve.  I haven't had this shock apart so at this stage I don't know what the valving looks like and whether there is still some sort of platform (or preload) operating on the shim stack in open mode.

Related articles:

Monarch RL (2015 Rapid Recovery)

The Monarch RL comes in a large variety of tunes, but what is commonly available in the aftermarket is the M-rebound / M-compression tune.

Monarch shock service

What you need

Monarch XX shock

Shim stack

Revalving 2015 Monarch RL MM tune for use on a Giant Anthem X

After-market shocks only seem available in MM tune.  2015 Giant Anthem's use a LM tune.  Accordingly, the MM shock needs a revalve to LM tune specs.