Mountain Bike Forks & Shocks
Forks and shocks are essential components of a mountain bike's suspension system, designed to absorb impacts, enhance traction, and improve rider comfort on rough terrain.
Forks
Forks are located at the front of the bike and are responsible for absorbing impacts from the terrain, like bumps, rocks, and roots. A high-quality suspension fork is crucial for providing the stability and performance you need to tackle challenging trails.
Types:
Rigid Forks: have no suspension and are typically found on entry-level or specialty bikes. They’re lightweight and low maintenance but provide no shock absorption.
Suspension Forks: have built-in suspension systems that absorb impacts and come in various types:
Coil Sprung: use metal coils to absorb impacts, generally provide a smoother ride but can be heavier.
Air Sprung: use compressed air for adjustable suspension. Lightweight and customizable but may require more maintenance.
Hybrid: combine elements of both coil and air suspension for a balance of performance and weight.
Travel: is the distance the fork can compress and extend. Longer travel forks are suitable for rougher terrain, while shorter travel forks are lighter and more responsive.
Damping: controls the speed at which the fork compresses and rebounds. Common damping systems include rebound damping and compression damping.
Adjustability: many forks offer adjustable features such as air pressure, rebound damping, and compression settings to fine-tune performance based on your preferences and terrain.
Shocks
Also known as rear shocks or rear suspension, are located at the rear of the bike and work in conjunction with the front fork to absorb impacts and improve traction.
Types:
Air: similar to air-sprung forks, these shocks use compressed air for adjustable suspension. Lightweight and customizable.
Coil: use metal coils for shock absorption. Generally provide a plush ride but can be heavier.
Hybrid: combine elements of both air and coil suspension for a balance of performance and weight.
Travel: similar to fork travel, rear shock travel determines the distance it can compress and extend. Longer travel shocks are suitable for aggressive riding, while shorter travel shocks are lighter and more efficient.
Damping: controls the speed of compression and rebound. Adjustable damping settings allow you to fine-tune shock performance.
Lockout: some shocks feature a lockout mechanism that temporarily stiffens the suspension for efficient climbing on smooth terrain.
Adjustability: like forks, shocks offer adjustable features such as air pressure, rebound damping, compression settings, and sometimes preload adjustment to optimize performance.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity of mountain bike forks and shocks. This includes cleaning, inspecting for wear and tear, lubricating moving parts, and following manufacturer recommendations for servicing intervals.
Choosing the right forks and shocks depends on your preferences, riding style, terrain, and budget. Consulting with a professional bike shop or experienced riders can help you select the best suspension components for your mountain biking needs.
The best enduro mountain bike Forks
A high-quality fork is essential for a smooth and stable ride on challenging enduro terrain.
The best mountain bike fork depends on your specific needs and budget.
Some of the best include:
Fox 36 Float: a top-end option, it features a GRIP damper/ hydraulic damping system, a stiff 36mm stanchion, and an adjustable air spring for a customized ride. Built for aggressive riding.
RockShox Lyrik Ultimate: another high-end option, it features a Charger 2.1 damper/hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for a smooth and consistent ride, and a 35mm stanchion for improved stiffness and handling.
MRP Ribbon: A top-performing option, it features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for improved control and stability.
DVO Diamond: A high-end option, it features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for a smooth and consistent ride.
Marzocchi Z1: a classic brand and a budget-friendly option, it features a hydraulic damping system/rebound damping and an adjustable air spring for a smooth and stable ride, and a sturdy 38mm stanchion for improved stiffness.
Magura MT7: a hydraulic suspension fork that offers smooth and consistent performance, with the option for custom tuning through the Magura eLect app.
X-Fusion Trace: another budget-friendly option, this bike offers a smooth and responsive ride, with adjustable air spring and rebound damping, and a tapered steerer for improved stiffness.
The best downhill mountain biking Rear Shocks
A high-quality rear shock is essential for a smooth and stable ride on challenging downhill terrain.
Some of the best include:
Fox Float X2: features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for a customized ride.
Fox 40 Float Factory: is designed for aggressive riding and features a stiff 40mm stanchion, a FIT GRIP2 damper, and an adjustable air spring.
RockShox Super Deluxe: features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring.
RockShox BoXXer Ultimate: features a Charger 2.1 RC2 damper, a large 40mm stanchion for increased stiffness, and an adjustable air spring for a customized ride.
Cane Creek Double Barrel: features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for improved control and stability.
Ohlins TTX: features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for a smooth and consistent ride.
Ohlins RXF 38: offers a hydraulic damping system, a stiff 38mm stanchion, and an adjustable air spring.
DVO Jade: features a hydraulic damping system and an adjustable air spring for improved control and stability.
DVO Diamond: offers a hydraulic damping system, a 35mm stanchion for improved stiffness, and an adjustable air spring for a customized ride.
Marzocchi Z1: a classic downhill fork, the Marzocchi Z1 offers a reliable ride, with an adjustable air spring and rebound damping, and a sturdy 38mm stanchion for improved stiffness.
These are some of the best mountain bike forks and shocks on the market, but there are others to choose from. When evaluating each, consider your riding style, the type of terrain you'll be riding on, and your budget. A good bike shop can help you find the right fork for your needs.
