How To Upgrade Your Mountain Bike Fork (Every Detail To Consider)

00:00 Intro
01:27 Steer Tube Size
02:58 Travel
05:20 Wheel Size
06:01 Offset
08:12 Axle Type
10:26 Brake Mounts
12:39 How Much? & Air vs Coil
There are many things to consider when upgrading the suspension fork on your mountain bike. Steerer tube size, offset, travel, these are just a few of the important facts to know before making any MTB suspension upgrade. Suspension fork technology evolves quickly and a lot has changed since our original video on how to upgrade your mountain bike fork. In our latest version, Jeff simplifies the complexities of a front fork suspension upgrade. In this video, we cover everything you could ever want to know about upgrading the fork on your mountain bike including compatible steerer tube sizes, suspension travel, wheel sizes, modern offsets, brake mounts, as well as all the standard axle types. By the time you are finished with this video, you will be a suspension fork expert. Class is now in session.
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#mtb #forks #suspension

[@WorldwideCyclery]

What fork do you have on your mountain bike?

[@d4bid15]

I have a Recon RL that came stock with my bike. Good enough. 😁

[@colbywishneski5800]

RockShox Recon Silver RL

[@its.taitooo8385]

Rockshock Yari

[@evenhello5137]

A marzocchi bomber z2

[@dopeytripod]

I have a 2018 Cannondale (27.5"-650B) CUJO 3 with SUNTOUR XCR FORKS...are there any upgrades or IS THERE ANYTHING to change for a better ride? so many have told me to just get a new set of forks but the prices are almost what I paid for the entire bike ($1200cdn) & maybe I'd be better off just getting a new $bike$? I love the gearing/set-up for ME on the Cujo but I don't really know any better when it comes to this sport...put 740 km on it since August of 2018 - never jumped it or have done anything except ride on pavement normally due to my back injury BUT I DID GET OUT ON A BIKE with my Dr's OK & have been loving it since!!! YES, I'm sure a full suspension mtb would be better for my back BUT because I'll NEVER be jumping or "downhilling" is it really worth it MONEY wise? Would really love to hear your suggestions.

[@user-fr2io9hj2d]

Bought my fork used for $380 in August. Just need to get the rest of the parts for my bike now 😂😂😂

[@andrewclarke7396]

I got a 400 fox 36 performance on pink bike. It’s epic

[@mrmakiii]

@@andrewclarke7396 yoo have you got the rest of your bike yet:D

[@andrewclarke7396]

@@mrmakiii oh that’s the other guy, I just got a fork for my bike.

[@mrmakiii]

@@andrewclarke7396 oh sorry😂😅

[@noone-io4yj]

Your forks cost more than my bike

[@rupedog]

I get this is marketing, but actually a very well made, knowledgeable and accurate vid...especially the +/-20mm max rule....good job guys.👏👏👏

[@WorldwideCyclery]

Hey thanks Rupert! And we don't necessarily see it as marketing. We see it as bringing value to the industry by sharing the knowledge we have. If that makes anyone want to shop with us, cool. Win win 😊. But we're here to support people having fun on bikes.

[@175thStreet]

Excellent video as always! I love learning more about bikes 🤘

[@genisis53]

I’ve unknowingly been waiting for a video like this!! Thanks guys

[@adamenglander]

If I want to upgrade my fork I'm going to Worldwide Cutlery and Kazoos...

[@TheHoodiman]

Cutlery🤣🤣🤣

[@LeBoosLeisure]

You guys never disappoint! I’m looking into forks now for my new 2021 chisel chameleon frame!

[@damiandavids1809]

Upgraded the fork on my Trek Fuel Ex from a 120mm to a 140mm pike. One of the best decisions I’ve made ever made

[@Bpf1893]

Pike is such a nice fork.

[@Mtree40]

I’m here trying to figure out which one works for my fuel ex 9. It came with a fox 34 but it’s leaking and I want a new one. Can I buy any fox 34 fork and it bolts up? Can I get a 36 for added travel?

[@perfectzero84]

I’m a huge supporter of The Stand! I literally subscribed just because I saw them in the background hahaha. All kidding aside, I really like the content being created. Keep up the good work.

[@James-il3tq]

Forking leads to spooning

[@WorldwideCyclery]

😂

[@meganNefarious]

Only if you find a nice guy lol..

[@iffy_too6465]

I hate the needy spooning after forking

[@smallhatshatethetruth7933]

@@iffy_too6465 Why don't you spork instead?

[@iffy_too6465]

@@smallhatshatethetruth7933 i may try that

[@gucass]

Again. I commented this on the last fork video. SO aggressive with those fork throws damn!

[@WorldwideCyclery]

😂👊🏻

[@ElpichonEro]

Nice vid ... I wish everyone would time their videos like you guys 🤙🏽

[@pabloglg3702]

I don't know how to change parts of my bike, this video is really helpful !!!

[@kittykat7618]

Thanks so much! Ill use this tips to upgrade my fork

[@Danny-dh7sl]

I just upgraded to the new Fox Factory 38. As a 230lb rider I love the added stiffness. Actually made a significant difference.

[@mtbtrailbuilding6813]

Just installed mine 2 rides ago, 180mm 38 Also around 210 215lbs, more rigid and haven't bottomed it out like I did on my 150mm 36

[@nervousordo]

At $1250 for just the Fox Factory 38 you could have bought a new bike. 🤣

[@mtbtrailbuilding6813]

@@nervousordo yeah you're right, my already 10k bike could have been replaced with a better version for $1250. Good luck with your Walmart junk though bro 👍

[@nervousordo]

@@mtbtrailbuilding6813 $10k for a bicycle? There a sucker born every minute. 🤣

[@mtbtrailbuilding6813]

@@nervousordo like I said, enjoy your Walmart bikes bro

[@nikhoward]

Great video. Really informative. Thank you.

[@Asthbendriel]

Excellent video guys! I just went through this process a few weeks ago and this is very helpful for anyone in that process. Just as an extra tip: even if tapered is the current standard, there are different "tapered" measurements, so making sure you have the correct headset for the fork you wanna mount is also a must or it simply won't fit. That just happened to me, turns out my previous fork was a straight tube with an adapter to run into my tapered frame and when I tried to get a new headset for the new fork which was tapered, they weren't fitting because my frame was "the shorter" tapered standard 😅 you guys helped me to get the right headset, so thank you very much 😁👌

[@mudmuncher90]

Another fantastic very helpful video cheers Jeff absolute legend mate

[@WorldwideCyclery]

Thanks!

[@torrey927]

You should do one of these videos for all major components on a bike!

[@citizenmattify]

I upgraded budget forks to new budget forks and the difference is unreal. Got some RockShox recon silver on sale for just over £100. Riding trails is a joy again

[@user-nu9tj1tr5z]

Great video!

[@grmnj]

great video, thank you for making it

[@WorldwideCyclery]

Thanks for watching!

[@erichbachman7363]

3:16, The manufacturer of my "frame", specifically decided that I can have 122 forks on average per meal. Thats why i have a 60" frame.

[@545future6]

this video is very helpful

[@TrailFeatures]

20mm travel limit is a hoax! I put a 200mm fork on my tricycle and was able to clear Crabapple hits in Whistler. - Some guy on Reddit.

[@WorldwideCyclery]

😂👊🏻👊🏻

[@jtswhitewater4940]

Just want to learn all about this so watching whole vid thanks 👍

[@JamesRobertMTB]

Solid choice of fork !

[@eliweiss6434]

Love his Makers bottle on the shelf!!

[@minnil7927]

I appreciate your chuckle at my sitution. I dont know if I should swap to new front wheel or what I have an old mtb but I converted it to an ebike. still a good frame.

[@f.b.i.5580]

*I love your content sooo much!*

[@WorldwideCyclery]

Thanks guy! The guy.

[@f.b.i.5580]

You're so welcome man thank you for the reply!!

[@dinobot_maximize]

helpful thanks

[@tresakay]

so helpful

[@assassincreed8491]

160mm rockshox ultimate lyrik then bought from u guys the new 170mm air spring to put in thanks again will order again soon from u guys

[@darrinkulyk9560]

Just Installed a 2018 Pike 150RC On My Rocky Very Happy 😎

[@bobbylilly7211]

Solid Info as always. I’m a old school Sk8er that totally got obsessed with MTB so my knowledge is limited currently, I’m running Fox 36 performance f4 & Factory DPX 2 on my Devinci DJango. Sounds like I’m running to much travel on it. “ Engineers did plan for it🖖🏽” Wouldn’t of know the Difference having to much FUN!!! LETS GO!!✊🏼

[@A.D.D.O.C.D.T]

Sk8 life ☠️🔥 Me too man just got one this year. Old school skater and BMX racer. MTB are crazy these days eh !

[@CanonFirefly]

You can fit tapered fork to a semi integrated head tube (common on entry level frames) that came standard with straight steerer by replacing the bottom cup of the headset. Nukeproof do one called the EX44-40 - B5. This opens up a lot more options for replacement forks.

[@drobotk]

I've always been interested in getting one of these but there doesn't seem to be much info about them anywhere regarding what will fit where etc.

[@colbywishneski5800]

I watched the older version of this last night

[@gravsson4472]

Hey thanks for the video, bike git stolen a couple of months ago and I recently got it back. They painted the whole bike, including the forks and the seals are full of paint and don't really travel anymore. So looks like I'm getting a new fork . There's lots more damage but this will get me going again

[@vf12497439]

Great video, I've been thinking about upgrading my Trek to disc brakes. Starting to think no.... eying brand new bikes and think ill just keep the Trek original retro. It was a great bike in its day.

[@titodavebikevlogs1437]

Plus 1 on the maker’s mark! ❤️ Got here since I am looking for more information if I can upgrade my Trek Marlin 7 2021 fork from Rockshox Judy to Fox 32. Things I thought off to consider are the axle. Marlins have a QR skewer while Fox32 has a TA. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@noliemig]

Qr was the worst, I had to buy a whole new front wheel

[@juslookinatyas]

Changed from 2020 Fox 36 Performance to 2021 Lyrik Ultimate. Can’t believe how much better the Lyrik is, especially small bump.

[@joshuachin9799]

Great explanation! Can you make a video to compare 2021 RockShox SID SL Ultimate and Fox 32 Factory? I can't made up my mind on which to go for.

[@sheltermutts4185]

Great video. How do I determine the “travel” of an older Giant mountain bike fork? Thanks!

[@XlogicXX]

Tnx.

[@RebelXero]

Forks are cool!!

[@invaderzimrocksify]

Well once I blow out the Rhythm 34 on my Stumpjumper I know what to get now 😂 But it has been a great fork for general trail riding.

[@sifunile8459]

I got a stock cheap coil SRsuntour fork on my bike . Looking to upgrade .. either the SRsuntour aion or the Z2marzoochi bomber 😁🤘

[@_Encie]

I'm in the midst of fixing a tapered tube fork on a straight head tube with adapters. Hoping this is gonna go well.

[@MacklinWatkins]

im at the start seems like a great fucking vid W

[@DamianNocun]

Hi Bikers, of course content is great and was enjoying to watch, however coming with question :) I have a XC bike, Trek Procaliber and was wondering if RockShox Reba would be a good fork for this bike knowing that SID has many issues. Would you recommend Reba as Judy SL replacement ? Or maybe something different in similar price range ?

[@therodenthitman]

Interesting one for you here, I have a 2004 Intense Uzzi SLX with nice upgrades by the previous owner. 200mm hydro discs front and back, dropper post and I've turned it into a mid-drive Ebike and absolutely love it. But I want to upgrade the front fork to something more modern. It's an old Manitou Sherman with the 1.5 inch straight steerer (not sure how much travel) and has the 20x110mm axle with 26 wheels. I'd like to be able to use the front wheel still even a 26 on a 27.5 fork is ok with me. Is it possible to use a fork with a tapered steerer using adapters? Would I just get the appropriate headset? Is it possible to have a bushing fit over a 15x110 to make it be 20x110 enabling me to keep my current wheels?

[@matr1x426]

well i got a 180 mm rockshox yari rc on my spesialized pitch comb hardtail and its working more than fine for me

[@danyelpiccin]

What do you think about changing from 51mm to 44mm offset and from 160mm to 170mm travel on a 2021 Specialized Turbo Levo bike?

[@marcusclement5251]

What is the longest travel fork i could get for a 1 1/18 threadless stem bike? (besides double crown downhill forks)

[@eleven8948]

I have a 2012 Ibis Mojo and it came with Fox Talas 32 140mm travel. The fork went out and I am thinking of replacing it with a Fox 36 160mm travel along with upgrading the fork to a the coil conversion from smashpot. Let me know what you think. Thanks

[@lirART-id1cb]

Can u make a Video about Headets and measurements? And angle headsets, so if u want to make ur geo up to Date u dont have to pay for a new longer fork or else.

[@TonyCisco]

I need to replace the fork on a 2017 Diamondback Recoil 29er. I bought it from my neighbor a few months ago. Everything on it was trashed. I am about six weeks from turning 60. I am disabled with a spine injury... 🤕 I will only use it for exercise to help strengthen my back and legs. I have a very small budget. I'm trying to improve after 5 years of paralysis. I can't even remember what a headset looks like. A video that explains what a "zero stack ahead 1⅛", is and how to replace the parts. Most important, I'd like to learn exactly which parts I need to order. Oh. Thanks for the video. I just subscribed.

[@LarsAnders54]

To reduce the travel on an air fork, such as Pike 2015, is it OK to simply increase the sag by reducing air pressure, and possibly adding a token to make it ramp up more? Your thoughts on this would be appreciated ;-))

[@taronas4378]

What is that hardtail frame, i love it

[@HAFIZzainalHZ]

im thinking to do a mullet setup scott genius 27.5 750 2017. is it possible? what's the effect on the geometry?

[@fauziatmandhika7072]

Excuse me, i want to ask about rearshock, my bike is using regular shock ( non trunnion ) and i want to use trunnion shock, can it?

[@tobyg4556]

Odd question: could I swap out my current 130 29er forks (with 27.5 wheel, 2.6 tyre) to a 150 27.5 fork (with 27.5 wheel, 2.6 tyre) ?? If axle to crown is very similar, only 3mm difference will it change to geometry very much?

[@skyerains2754]

Just ordered the 38 Orange from yinz.

[@Meme_supplier]

How about a remote lockout? Does it have a significant advantage over a manual lockout?

[@thevapingpolisher9717]

I’m running manitou forks on my e bike

[@roller9567]

I have a 170mm front/160 back suspension bike,i just bought a 190 zen,it works well but im thinking to change the airsprint to 180,the 190 is just a little bit big

[@mrfrogg46able]

i have a 2018 GT Avalanche. 9 or 10mm QR. i use a DT swiss 350 with their 10mm QR axle. its great. i have a tapered full integrated head tube. i use a cane creek 44. headset. a rockshox recon tk gold 100mm. i an getting a fox 32 or 34, used. 3 to 4 hundred. fit float 3 position. all the bells n whistles. 120 to 140mm. it fits.

[@ElFamosoArt]

How often do you need to lube up forks?? And how do you know if they are well lubricated?

[@adamneulander]

4:08 why is there only 1 crown on that fox 40

[@WorldwideCyclery]

Haha well that's because it's installed entirely incorrectly on purpose for a joke. We posted it on Instagram a while ago.

[@judechandler5102]

that is a monstrosity. End it's misery now!

[@danielvelasquez7708]

Hello Worldwide Cyclery I have a Sr Suntour Xct 80mm of travel quick release, and I looking to upgrade the fork to a better one with 100mm would be enough any suggestions.

[@dylanwatsham7623]

Hi it says that you can use an adaptor for quick release axle's I have quick release axle's and I am looking to get the rockshox recon front fork. I think it has a different type of axle to my bike. If so what adaptor kits can I get.

[@Roxak]

Great videos guys! Am thinking of upgrading my fork, its a 160mm and the bike has a 150mm damper on the rear. Do you think switching to a ZEB 180mm is reasonable with 30mm difference to the damper or is 170mm the max to keep things balanced?

[@Adam-vm8kp]

Damper is the same it’s the air spring that defines the travel and I wouldn’t add more than 20mm or your bike will be horrible to ride.

[@Drago0900]

My bike is from walmart and I have no idea what offset it had but I changed it out for a scrap m3030 due to major failure in the Walmart one. The manufacturer says that the stock fork was 80mm and that a 100mm fork would be fine. Idk it’s just weird. After I changed forks my steering was a bit more responsive but that could be from the fact that there was no play in the stanchions.

[@callmelawrence9546]

Would you recommend a 1 1/8 to 1.5 headset adapter for a strait tube frame? My current bike has a straite tube, but i want to install a better fork, its definetly a capable frame. just curius as to what you guys think about that.

[@thecakeisalie7070]

You "can" run a 29er fork for 27.5 frame but since the arch is taller, you lose about 20mm of possible travel per wheel-size. Smaller the wheel, the more travel you get from the same axle-to-crown distance. You can also upgrade your 26er with modern tapered fork but there are many things to consider. If you have an older freeride bike that can use 200mm 26er fork with 570mm axle-to-crown, you can run a 160mm 29er. If you are upgrading a 26er 20x110 DH to a 15x110 Boost you'll need a 5mm brake rotor spacer. Even though the axle width is the same, the designed distance from brake rotor to brake mount is 5mm wider on the 15x110 Boost spec. Also, you'd need to run something with torque cap compatible fork because the 26er 20x110's hub interface diameter is larger than what the 27.5-29er 15x110 hub. Maybe your 26er came with 1.5" headtube - you'll need a reducer top or if it's already running straight 1 1/8 reducer top and bottom, you'll need a 1.5" bottom.

[@robthesasquatch6482]

flying plastic forks. best 2 dollar gag i have seen in a long time lol

[@WorldwideCyclery]

😅🍻

[@SqBike]

Hi, I'm standing in front of my Giant roam disc 2 2021 and wondering if replacing a spring shock with an air shock is profitable. Will it bring more comfort, and what shock stroke to use, the same 63 mm as if I gave 80 mm?...

[@MsPsycho1337]

I’m really enjoyed watching this, especially the way you are speaking :D But there is one thing I still can’t understand: which fork size should I choose for 28 wheel size for hard tail cross country purposes?

[@noliemig]

28??

[@VKminus]

Thought i could upgrade my kitchen fork but i guess im on the wrong video so i blame the thumbnail for that 😂

[@cohenpeters7200]

hey, i have a marin rift zone 2 with 130mm travel should i be fine going to 140mm or should i stay the same? cheers

[@vukansarenac7291]

Just got a new scott aspect 940, and just realised it is not tapered, what are some modern xc forks that I can upgrade to, or any adapters I can use.

[@importraceramimportraceam1756]

Possibly looking to upgrade my Rockshox 35 Gold RL on my Giant Trance 3. Any recommendations for my application? I know the great debate (Fox vs Rockshox).

[@ThePupyl]

Have dead RST storm 180 in the box beside me. Swapped for 200mm BOXXER, definetly change for the better (bike - author ninja)

[@bouhemian4373]

8:44 YIKES!!! If your Quick release is tightened like that, consider taking a course in bicycle mechanics.

[@MrFLAME-wl7ws]

Like the video but can you use some examples of $300 and below forks

[@Manicsar1]

I got a 2018 Fuji Nevada 1.7 29, what fork should I get with 100mm travel. The fork it came with had a warning that it was not mint for trail, I picked this up a couple years ago for around 500 dollars and I can upgrade but wife would be upset if I just replaced it.

[@Mr75Axl]

Hi ! Can i swap my fork on Roscoe 7 (2020) with a DT SWISS F535 one 130mm ? it seems good for me but im not sure about it. thanks

[@kenkoy6723]

Just bought the Rockshox Recon 29" on your Amazon store. Not really sure if the Giant Talon 4 2021 has a tapered or straight tube. Can you confirm that to me because the Rockshox Recon is for straight tube. I really appreciate your reply.

[@dany1398ify]

Hey great video It helped me a lot! but I have a couple of questions I would be really happy if you could help me . I ride a hardtail, scott scale 980 (2021, 29er , 9mm axle , tapered hadt tube ) I am really loving the bike, but my current fork really hold me back..( suntor xcr 32 ,100m , coil fork ) I would like to upgrade my fork to an air fork , with 120 mm of travel, I wanted to be more capable on the descense.. but I’m afraid it will mess up the geometry too much.. I sent a message to Scott a while back and didn’t get a response so I was wondering if you could help me with this issue . Also I don’t know if you’re familiar with this specific budget fork , suntor epixon 120mm air fork .. but they wanted to hear your thoughts and ask if there’s a better option at this price point ( 200 $ ) Thanks a lot for reading Great videos I love your channel!

[@danielpriimak9851]

Are there fox 32 forks that have straight 1 1/8 steerer tube?

[@romydg62]

Hi, I have a 2020 Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro Ebike with Suntour XCM 34 Boost fork with 100 mm travel. What equivalent fork can I buy to upgrade it to an air fork, nothing fancy, I just like a better one with 120 mm travel, please advise...thanks in advance:)

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

I have a new Trek Marlin 7 it came with a Rockshox Judy Coil spring fork, the steerer neck only takes an untapered fork so how do I upgrade when modern forks are tapered?

[@oliverslade9953]

Opinions on swapping Marzocchi decals on a black Z1 with fox 36 rainbow decals? Tacky or steezy sarcastic flex?

[@vincesanity27]

What bike stand are you guys using on those beatiful bikes?

[@evanmason4967]

hey I watched this video to learn about forks because I'm kind of rebuilding one of my bikes. I really got into mountain biking with a schwinn ascention 29 and recently I took everything off and I'm just putting new parts on because i like the frame. I would really like to put a fox 32 xc fork on it but it came stock with a straight steerer tube. However, the lower headset bearing cup is larger than the top bearing cup would a tapered head tube work with this frame?

[@scotty-sb1403]

So I have an sb140 2020, with a fox performance 37mm offset. Would a factory fork with 44 offset completely change the ride????help I’m struggling to find the answers…love your work

[@ExildRusher]

I'm really not sure if I understood properly the offset explanation. I currently have a Rockshox Yari with a 51mm offset on my bike and I was planning on upgrading it to a Rockshox Zeb which is only being made in a 44mm offset (29'' wheels). If I buy the fork with a 44mm offset, is it really gonna change the feel of my entire bike and is it gonna be dangerous for my headtube ? The bike that I have is a Devinci Spartan NX 29 2019.

[@matthew_dag6201]

Can you put a 29er fork on a 27.5 bike and make it a mullet bike? What about travel?

[@malidubois7818]

Hi I have a 2020 cube hard tail with a quick release axle but want to get new forks would I have to have an adapter or new wheels thank you

[@benbreshears2812]

Is the Debonair 2.1 compatible with the 2015 pike and would it make a big difference?

[@twowheelking1909]

I bought a 2021 Rocky Mountain soul 20 I thought it was decently high end but it came with quick release axles Im confused because you said only old bike have that