How To Service Rock Shox MTB Fork | Mountain Bike Maintenance

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through servicing a RockShox mountain bike fork, specifically the RockShox Pike model. Regular maintenance, recommended every 50 hours of riding, ensures your fork operates smoothly and extends its lifespan. With basic tools and fork oil, you can perform this lower leg service efficiently.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Place your bike in a workstand or remove the fork for easier access.
• Ensure you have the necessary tools:
  • Shock pump
  • 2.5 mm Allen key
  • 5 mm Allen key
  • Mallet
  • Fine pick
  • New foam rings and seals
  • Fork oil
  • Syringe
  • Fork grease
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Clean rags
  • Gloves
  • Oil pan

Step 2: Release Air from the Fork

• Check and note the current air pressure and rebound settings for easy adjustment later.
• Use a shock pump or manually deflate the valve with the end of an Allen key to release all air from the fork.

Step 3: Remove the Rebound Adjuster Knob

• Using the 2.5 mm Allen key, carefully undo the pinch bolt on the rebound adjuster.
• Remove the adjuster knob and store it safely for reassembly.

Step 4: Remove the Fork Lowers

• Place an oil pan underneath the fork to catch any draining oil.
• Use the 5 mm Allen key to loosen the bolts at the bottom of the fork without removing them completely.
• Tap the end of an Allen key gently with a mallet to free any stuck internals.
• Slide the lower legs off the fork; if there’s resistance, reinsert the bolts slightly and tap again.

Step 5: Remove the Foam Rings

• Use a fine pick to carefully pry out the foam rings located under the wiper seals. Avoid damaging the seals.
• Soak the foam rings in isopropyl alcohol to clean them, then pat them dry.

Step 6: Clean the Fork Lowers

• Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the inside of the fork lowers.
• Inspect the seals for any damage. If they are worn, replace them to prevent oil leaks.

Step 7: Reinstall the Foam Rings

• Place the cleaned foam rings back into the fork.
• Apply a small amount of suspension grease around the inside of the wiper seals.

Step 8: Reattach the Lower Legs

• Slide the lower legs back onto the upper legs, ensuring the seals do not fold or get damaged.
• Pull the lowers back about 1 cm to create space for lubricant.

Step 9: Add Lower Leg Lubrication

• Use a syringe to inject the recommended amount of fork oil into the lower legs, as specified for your fork model.
• Replace the bolts at the bottom of the fork and ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

Step 10: Reassemble the Fork

• Reattach the rebound adjuster knob and secure it in place.
• Reinsert the air into the fork using the noted pressure from Step 2.
• Wipe down the fork with isopropyl alcohol for a clean finish.

Conclusion

You have successfully serviced your RockShox fork, ensuring it performs optimally and prolongs its life. Regular maintenance is crucial for any mountain bike enthusiast, so make it a habit to check your fork every 50 hours of riding. Now, reinstall the fork on your bike and hit the trails! If you want to learn about servicing other fork models, check out related tutorials.