O.K so i know this is going to sound like a newb question but id rather be safe than sorry. if i have a xc bike with 120mm can i upgrade to a fork with around 150 or so without any complications?
upgrading to a longer fork
- Thread starter crouchingtiger
- Start date
No. 123
That much of a change wouldn't be recommended. This will change the overall geometry of the bike and you'll find it doesn't handle as well. especially on climbs, you'll find the front wandering. you'll also be raising your BB (and thus your CG). You'll also find that this will increasing the bending stress in the head-tube ... that may or may not be a problem depending on the loads it was designed for. you can generally go +10mm ... but that's about it.
ok then. what would be a good fork?
Well... if you think your bike needs more travel, it might be time to look at new bikes. If you are happy with the travel, geometry, build, etc -- and all you are looking for is an upgraded fork... my recommendation would be the Fox F120 with the FIT damper and 15mm thru axle.