Suspension forks can be one of the more costly yet effective upgrades you can add to your mountain bike.
More and more models make setting up and fine-tuning easier, with some brands providing air pressure stickers or interactive tuning apps for setup or fine-tuning purposes.
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Top 5 Best Mountain Bike Forks |
1. RockShox ZEB Ultimate
RockShox's Zeb fork was designed specifically to tackle massive days on demanding trails.
Ranging in travel from 160mm to 190mm, its performance matches that of its Lyrik and Pike counterparts with some minor tweaks--most notably the new RC2 damper installed into 38mm stanchions that offers supercharged small bump sensitivity, mid stroke support, and impressively low levels of friction thanks to an enhanced lower bushing design that maximises overlap, as well as using its own brand Maxima Plush fluid--making fork ownership an impressive experience indeed!
At its core, RockShox's Zeb fork is designed to take hard punishment on any terrain.
It can absorb significant impacts without becoming harsh; bottoming out easier than Fox's budget 38; yet remains generally calm and composed upon major hits with minimal weight shift during big hits. Set-up should be straightforward if you follow RockShox's air recommendations; this fork should give a great ride from day one.
2. RockShox Lyrik Ultimate
RockShox has created one of the most versatile and adaptable forks available with the Lyrik.
Specifically tailored for riders of all levels of experience from cross country racers to enduro veterans, it caters to everyone.
The latest Lyrik offers smooth action and wide adjustability options to meet all riding styles and weight requirements, while featuring industry-leading tech like the new Charger 3.1 RC2 damper, ButterCups technology, and DebonAir air spring with its robust 35mm chassis.
Initial stroke was ultra smooth, while when climbing there was barely any bob and the fork tracked the ground well.
Even deep into its travel range it remains responsive, providing plenty of support when needed most.
RockShox claims the 3.1 has eliminated high and low-speed compression [adjustment] cross-talk, something you're sure to recognize immediately. It outshines its competitors with absolute ease and will let you push beyond your limits with total confidence - unlike its ZEB cousin which requires time and patience before reaching its true potential.
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Top 5 Best Mountain Bike Forks |
3. FOX 36 Factory
As its name implies, Fox's premium all-mountain fork equipped with their GRIP2 damper offers superior damping performance and has an elegant aesthetic.
As far as handling is concerned, the 36 Factory fork is an outstanding performer that easily absorbs bumps and big hits without losing control.
Furthermore, its responsive nature means you can push hard into corners without fearing your front end is going to dive.
2021 saw an update for the 36, with features including new lower leg designs with bypass channels and bleed valves as well as a floating axle design to increase torsional stiffness and help with frame alignment.
Furthermore, its crown was upgraded with improved durability that reduces creaking steerer tubes.
The 36 is an ideal fork for riders who ride 160mm travel trail bikes and enjoy big hits and bike park runs.
This tough fork can handle whatever comes your way and is also great for use in enduro races or just extra descent confidence.
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Top 5 Best Mountain Bike Forks |
4. Formula Selva R
Formula is known for their brakes, and now offer their inaugural fork in the form of the Selva R fork.
Designed to offer easy setup with fine-tunable damping capability should desired, the Selva R provides plenty of adjustability on setup as well.
Formula's 34 XC fork utilizes the same basic design, yet adds features that differentiate it from other air forks.
One such feature is its use of a separate negative air chamber with its own dedicated air pressure to avoid being negatively affected by compression forces from positive air chamber.
This results in lower air pressure in negative chamber and more comfortable initial part of travel.
Formula's Neo Pos compressible volume spacers give this fork the ability to customize its progression curve and create a less harsh ramp at the end of travel, similar to what would be experienced when riding coil forks. When combined with swappable CTS compression circuits, there are an impressive variety of ways this fork can tailor itself specifically to match your riding style and bike.
5. RockShox Yari
RockShox made waves last year with their launch of their Lyrik fork, but they also released the more budget-minded Yari fork with DebonAir air spring technology which provides increased mid-stroke support and greater sensitivity, helping it win our Best in Class award in our suspension fork group test.
Fork was designed to instil confidence among hard-hitting enduro and E-MTB riders.
It combines the Lyrik chassis with DebonAir air spring and Motion Control damper for maximum damping performance, as well as deeper crown and 35mm stanchions which increase stiffness.
RockShox designed the Yari fork to fill an opening in their OEM lineup and provide aggressive riders with access to top-tier forks at a lower cost point.
Though the fork doesn't quite match up to Lyrik or Pike performance levels, it still offers outstanding value and utilizes Torque Cap dropouts which connect with oversized hub end caps to increase stiffness for increased stiffness and rigidity.
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Top 5 Best Mountain Bike Forks |
Q. What is a mountain bike fork?
A mountain bike fork is a key component of a mountain bike that connects the front wheel to the frame. It plays a crucial role in absorbing shock from rough terrain and improving control and handling. The fork typically includes stanchions, a crown, and a steerer tube. There are two main types of mountain bike forks: rigid (no suspension) and suspension forks (which have either coil or air springs to absorb shocks).
Q. What are the top 5 best mountain bike forks?
The top 5 mountain bike forks often mentioned for their performance and reliability are:
- Fox 36 Factory Grip2: Known for its excellent damping and adjustability, it's a favorite for aggressive riders.
- RockShox Pike Ultimate: A versatile, lightweight fork with great sensitivity and a smooth ride.
- DVO Diamond D1: Offers superior adjustability and plush performance, making it great for enduro and trail riders.
- Öhlins RXF36 M.2: Famous for its superb control on rough terrain with top-notch damping technology.
- Manitou Mezzer Pro: Lightweight with high stiffness, it's designed for enduro and downhill use.
Q. How do I choose the best mountain bike fork for my riding style?
To choose the best mountain bike fork, you need to consider your riding style and terrain:
- For Cross-country (XC), prioritize lightweight forks with 100-120 mm of travel.
- For Trail riding, look for forks with 120-150 mm of travel and good damping characteristics.
- For Enduro or Downhill, consider a fork with 160-180 mm of travel that offers high stiffness and superior shock absorption.
Also, check for features like adjustability, spring type (coil vs. air), weight, and axle compatibility.
Q. Who should consider upgrading to a premium mountain bike fork?
Anyone who rides frequently on rugged or varied terrain, or those looking for better bike handling and comfort, should consider upgrading to a premium mountain bike fork. Competitive riders, especially in enduro, downhill, or trail categories, benefit the most from high-end forks. If you're experiencing discomfort or find your current fork lacks the control you need, it's worth considering an upgrade.
Q. How do I maintain my mountain bike fork?
Maintaining a mountain bike fork involves regular cleaning and servicing to keep it performing well:
- Clean the stanchions after every ride to prevent dirt buildup.
- Lubricate the seals to reduce friction.
- Service the fork every 50-100 hours of riding, which may include changing the oil, cleaning the internals, and checking for worn parts.
Regular maintenance ensures your fork remains smooth, responsive, and durable over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mountain bike fork is crucial for enhancing your overall riding experience, whether you’re tackling technical trails or enjoying a leisurely ride.
The top 5 mountain bike forks highlighted—RockShox ZEB Ultimate, RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, FOX 36 Factory, Formula Selva R, and RockShox Yari—each offer unique features tailored to different riding styles and preferences.
With advancements in technology, modern forks provide easier setup and fine-tuning options, allowing riders to customize their experience to suit their specific needs.
Investing in a quality fork can significantly improve your bike's handling, comfort, and performance on various terrains.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, these forks cater to a range of skill levels and budgets, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
As you consider an upgrade, remember that the right fork not only enhances your ride but also boosts your confidence on the trails.
Regular maintenance and proper care will help keep your fork performing at its best, allowing you to focus on what you love most: riding your mountain bike.
