Manitou R7 expert 120 mm travel

[ChrisduT]

Hi, I am looking for assistance on the setup of a Manitou R7 expert suspension fork. The air pressure guide is self explanatory, but on the rebound side I am battling. There is a blue dial on the opposite side of the air valve at the bottom of the fork, however I don't really feel the effect after adjusting it. The problem is, the fork feels really stiff/hard, even after I went way below the prescribed pressure. please, anyone with experience with this fork 

[droo]

How old is the fork? Did you buy new or used?

[ChrisduT]

It came on my 2024 Titan Cypher 120 mm travel carbon expert, it was purchased in Jan 2025.

 

[droo]

Ok, next question then...

When you compress the fork, does it start to compress immediately and return gently or does it take a bit of force before it starts moving and top out with a clunk?

[ChrisduT]

It takes a bit of force to compress, it does not top out with a cluck however

 

[droo]

In that case, just set up according to sag and see how you go. On the Cypher I'd recommend 20 - 25%.

If you can easily bottom the fork out at 25% sag then there's probably an issue with the air spring.

If you're in CT you're welcome to bring us the bike and we can help you out with setup and assessment.

 

[ChrisduT]

Thank you so much, I will try it this afternoon. Unfortunately, I stay in the Northern Cape, Kathu. 

Thanks again.