I sent a 2017 Rockshox Monarch RT to a suspension shop for a 200 hour service. I got a call from them today saying the internal shaft was scored or bent or something and that Rockshox no longer supplies this part so my only option is to trash the shock and buy a new one. I've only had two rear shocks and I can't say for sure I would know what a blown damper feels like but the shock seemed to be working okay to me. I only sent it in because the service was due. I'm skeptical that the shop maybe damaged the part during disassembly. I guess there is no way I will ever know but I thought someone on here might be able to tell me if the internal shaft is impossible to source or not. I wasn't really planning on dropping $500+ on a new shock but I can't ride without one. Any advice?
Did I get screwed by a suspension shop?
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You may have!! but ive seen monarchs all over the net for roughly $200!!! $500 is waaay high for that shock.
Id think about an upgrade as well!
Id think about an upgrade as well!
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12,761 Posts
^ This. Good info here OP.
Thanks Dougal, I’m bummed my shock can’t be fixed but I feel a little better knowing the story checks out and I’m not just getting taken advantage of. I was considering moving to a Monarch plus for a replacement but I don’t want another shock to wear out in 4 years. Maybe I’ll try a DPX2 instead.
Yeah, I was thinking $500 for a brand new upgraded shock. I figure even if I went with lightly used I would still be close to $500 if it needs servicing.
Unfortunately this is a 100% realistic scenario. Is your bike a specialized by any chance? I have STACKS of worn out monarchs in the graveyard for the same reason. Normally due to the clevis extension on specialized frames putting more leverage and bending load on them, but it can happen to other bikes too. I have seen one dudes shock wear in about a year and the replacement one was already well on its way 6 months later!
Newer generation shocks eg Fox DPX2, Float X or Rockshox Super Deluxe Air are designed to be much more durable in frames like this, but I also suggest at least a basic/air can service every year to reduce the chances of it happening or at least catch it earlier
Newer generation shocks eg Fox DPX2, Float X or Rockshox Super Deluxe Air are designed to be much more durable in frames like this, but I also suggest at least a basic/air can service every year to reduce the chances of it happening or at least catch it earlier
It’s a 2017 Santa Cruz Bronson. I bought it used in 2019 so I can’t vouch for service for the 1st 2 years but I was pretty good about doing the 50 hour air can service. I was thinking from Dougal’s comment above that maybe it was caused by waiting too long for a damper service.
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Or pay for the return shipping so you can examine the parts. It will set your mind at ease.
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3,338 Posts
You cannot buy the seal head either though.
Doesn't hurt, but fresh lubricants in the damper & air can would be more beneficial and inspect the bushing in the sealhead at the same time. You might spot some signs wear there before the shaft
Also monitor pivot bearings for play or roughness too
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5,009 Posts
You could take the silver lining that the monarch was one of the worst shocks I'd ever ridden.
Imo It does not belong on a high end bike.
As it's imperial sized, hunt around on ebay and you will find great shocks at a good price.
My last find was a brand new fox van rc for £150.
I can stress how bad the monarch was, and I was running the rc3 plus their most overpriced version.
Imo It does not belong on a high end bike.
As it's imperial sized, hunt around on ebay and you will find great shocks at a good price.
My last find was a brand new fox van rc for £150.
I can stress how bad the monarch was, and I was running the rc3 plus their most overpriced version.
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1,785 Posts
I'd say it, as usual, it depends on the bike.
The Monarch Plus was in fact the very best shock I've ridden when paired with a 2010 Specialized Enduro (the first bike using the dreaded clevis mount).
Unfortunately the bike would eat them so fast, making them leak and even unthreading pistons, that I would carry a Fox RP23 in my pack on longer rides to swap out when the Monarch *hit the bed.
I even had 2 Monarchs at one point to swap between. It was sooooo good when it was working, like magic on that bike.
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Really?
On the wfo it'd spike on fast impacts.
The Pole was worse, absolutely no traction.
Swapping the wfo to a manitou isx6 was a major upgrade. More supportive and controlled without the spiking. Even better with a cane creek.
The Pole was improved by a cane creek with a leaking damper.
I've demoed it on a ton of bikes, poor.
I do conced with a retune it's supposed to be good, I'm talking about stock.
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