The fork on a downhill (DH) mountain bike is an essential component that plays a crucial role in the stability, handling and safety of the bike when riding downhill, a discipline that emphasizes speed and descent on extremely technical terrain. Here is a description of its function, its characteristics and the associated standards:
Function :
1. Shock absorption:
The main function of a downhill mountain bike fork is to absorb shock and vibration from rough terrain, jumps and obstacles encountered at high speeds while descending.
2. Stability and control:
A downhill fork contributes to the stability and control of the bike by keeping the wheels in contact with the ground and reducing excessive bounce, ensuring precise trajectory in technical sections.
3. Suspension adjustment:
Downhill forks typically feature sophisticated, adjustable suspension systems that allow suspension preload, compression, and rebound to be adjusted based on rider preference and ride characteristics.
Features :
1. Travel:
Downhill mountain bike forks have travel typically between 180mm and 200mm or more to provide maximum shock absorption in the most extreme conditions.
2. Rigidity:
Downhill forks are designed to provide maximum rigidity to maintain steering precision and stability at high speeds and aggressive riding conditions. They can be reinforced with materials such as magnesium, carbon or special reinforcements to improve resistance to stress.
3. Suspension type:
Downhill forks typically use air or hydraulic suspension, which provides effective shock absorption and quick response to obstacles encountered on the course.
4. Thru-axle:
Most downhill forks feature a thru-axle to attach the wheel to the fork securely, providing additional rigidity and better stability when cornering and jumping.
Standards:
1. Head tube diameter:
Downhill forks typically use tapered headtubes for increased rigidity and better stress distribution. Common head tube standards are 1 1/8 inches at the top and 1.5 inches at the bottom.
2. Tube diameter:
Downhill forks come in different fork tube sizes, usually expressed in millimeters. Common tube diameters are 35mm, 36mm and 40mm, providing optimal rigidity for aggressive downhill riding.
In summary, the fork of a downhill mountain bike is an essential element for performance and safety when practicing downhill. With specific features and standards, it is designed to provide maximum shock absorption, optimal stability and precise response in the most demanding conditions encountered when descending on technical and steep terrain.