Fork Upgrades

gcwebbyuk

We currently have the following forks on our bikes:

Stumpy - Fox F90RL
Arete - RockShox Tora 302

Both 2008 models.

They are both in need of a full service, and because they have been in storage for the last 4 years, I am tempted to upgrade them both.

How much have forks moved on over the past six years? What model of fork would be the equivalent in today's market? Fox 32 / RockShox SID / Reba / 30 Gold?

They are both 1.1/8" steerer with 9mm QR and for 26" wheels.

Will only be used for XC

The Rookie

Easy enough to service yourself......will take about 45 mins and cost about £10 in oils....

mcnultycop

26" Rebas in straight steerer Qr are like rocking horse droppings. I'd panic buy them!

supersonic

The Tora is heavy, but sturdy - and easy to service.

The Fox a little harder to service, but the damper is actually very similar. Both decent when working, and would cost a lot to replace for better.

rockmonkeysc

The old Fox fork is better than the new version.

gcwebbyuk

Thanks for the info, will look into service kits etc. Are TF Tuned the ones to go for?

Neither fork has been serviced since purchase, so both way overdue - however they have been in storage for about 4.5 years of their life.

Is there anything worth specifically checking while servicing them other than just changing oil/seals?

The Rookie

TFTuned for the RS, Mojo for the Fox.

Before going for a kit it's worth checking them over carefully visually for signs of wear and also check for play in the bushings, and if you won't be riding it, split the lowers off to look for stanchion wear below the seal or wear to the bushes.