The Rock Shox monarch is one of the gold standard rear shocks currently on the market. With a rebound knob and resistance externally adjustable to three different points, you can adjust your ride on the go when the trail conditions change (because you know they will). That, and when the shock weighs in at only 210g, you know it's only going to make your bike go faster. Fast enough for the trail, big enough for some excitement, built enough to last.