If you’re a mountain biker, you know how important it is to have a reliable and efficient suspension fork. Two popular options in the market are the RockShox Recon Gold and Reba forks. Both of them are known for their excellent performance and durability. If you’re considering upgrading your current suspension fork, you might be wondering if you can swap Recon Gold over with Reba forks. Let’s delve into this topic and find out!
First of all, it’s important to note that both the Recon Gold and Reba forks are produced by RockShox, a reputable brand in the mountain biking industry. This means that they share some similarities in terms of construction and design. However, there are also some key differences between them that you should consider before making a decision.
The Recon Gold fork is a reliable option for riders who prioritize comfort and control. It features a Motion Control damping system that helps absorb impacts and enhance traction, providing a smooth and stable ride. On the other hand, the Reba fork is renowned for its lightweight design and excellent stiffness, making it a popular choice for racers and riders seeking improved efficiency.
So, can you swap Recon Gold over with Reba forks? The good news is that, in most cases, it is possible to make the swap. Both forks have similar dimensions and can fit into the same frames. However, you may need to consider a few factors before proceeding with the swap.
What are Recon Gold and Reba forks?
Recon Gold and Reba are two popular models of mountain bike suspension forks produced by RockShox. Both forks are known for their high performance and durability, making them a preferred choice among mountain bikers.
The Recon Gold fork is specifically designed for cross-country and trail riding. It features a lightweight construction, which helps in reducing the overall weight of the bike and enhancing its maneuverability. With its 32mm stanchions and Solo Air spring system, the Recon Gold fork provides a smooth and controlled suspension travel, allowing riders to navigate rough terrains with ease.
The Reba fork, on the other hand, offers similar performance to the Recon Gold, but with some additional features. It is also suitable for cross-country and trail riding, but it is more optimized for aggressive riding styles. The Reba fork comes with a Motion Control damper, which allows riders to adjust the fork’s compression settings according to their preferences. This feature provides better control and stability during descents and technical sections of the trail.
Main Features:
- Recon Gold: Lightweight construction, 32mm stanchions, Solo Air spring system.
- Reba: Motion Control damper, adjustable compression settings.
Both the Recon Gold and Reba forks are designed to enhance the overall performance and comfort of the rider. However, it is important to note that swapping a Recon Gold fork with a Reba fork (or vice versa) may require additional adjustments and compatibility considerations. It is recommended to consult with a professional bike mechanic or manufacturer’s guidelines before making any modifications to your bike’s suspension system.
Compatibility of Recon Gold and Reba forks
Recon Gold and Reba forks are both reputable models manufactured by RockShox. They are designed for different purposes and have a few key differences that may affect compatibility.
Firstly, it’s important to note that the Recon Gold is a cross-country fork, while the Reba is a versatile trail fork. The Recon Gold is known for its lightweight and efficient performance, making it ideal for riders focused on speed and efficiency. The Reba, on the other hand, offers more travel and adjustability, making it better suited for aggressive trail riding.
In terms of compatibility, the two forks differ in terms of axle standards and wheel sizes. The Recon Gold is available with either a 9mm quick-release or 15mm thru-axle, while the Reba is available with a 9mm quick-release, 15mm thru-axle, or Boost 15x110mm thru-axle. Additionally, the Recon Gold is available for both 27.5″ and 29″ wheels, while the Reba is available for 26″, 27.5″, and 29″ wheels.
It’s important to ensure that the fork you choose is compatible with your frame’s axle standards and wheel size. If your frame is designed for a specific axle standard, you will need to select a fork that matches that standard. Similarly, if your frame is designed for a specific wheel size, you will need to select a fork that supports that size.
If you are unsure about compatibility or have any specific questions, it is recommended to consult with a knowledgeable bike mechanic or contact the manufacturer directly. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate information regarding compatibility and assist you in making the best decision for your bike setup.
| Feature | Recon Gold | Reba |
|---|---|---|
| Axle Standards | 9mm quick-release or 15mm thru-axle | 9mm quick-release, 15mm thru-axle, or Boost 15x110mm thru-axle |
| Wheel Sizes | 27.5″ or 29″ | 26″, 27.5″, or 29″ |
| Recommended Use | Cross-country | Trail |
Pros and cons of swapping Recon Gold over with Reba forks
Swapping your Recon Gold fork with Reba forks can bring both advantages and disadvantages. Here are the pros and cons you should consider before making a decision:
Pros:
- Improved performance: Reba forks are known for their superior performance and responsiveness compared to Recon Gold. Swapping to Reba can significantly enhance your riding experience.
- Lighter weight: Reba forks are generally lighter than Recon Gold, which can lead to improved maneuverability and easier handling on the trails.
- Adjustability: Reba forks offer more advanced adjustability features, such as external rebound and compression damping adjustments, which allow you to fine-tune the fork to better suit your riding style and terrain.
- Compatibility: Swapping Recon Gold over with Reba forks is usually a straightforward process, as they have similar steerer sizes and axle standards, making it easier to install the new fork onto your bike.
Cons:
- Cost: Upgrading to Reba forks can be expensive. You will need to consider the cost of purchasing the new fork and any additional components or tools required for the installation.
- Compatibility issues: While Recon Gold and Reba forks have similar specifications, there may still be compatibility issues with your specific frame or wheel size. It is important to ensure that the new fork is compatible with your bike before making the swap.
- Learning curve: Reba forks offer more adjustability options, which means you may need to spend some time experimenting and dialing in the settings to find the optimal performance. This can require a learning curve and patience.
Ultimately, the decision to swap Recon Gold over with Reba forks depends on your priorities, budget, and specific riding needs. If you value improved performance, lighter weight, and advanced adjustability, then the upgrade may be worth considering. However, if cost and compatibility concerns are important factors for you, it might be best to stick with the Recon Gold or explore alternative options.
How to swap Recon Gold over with Reba forks
If you are considering swapping your Recon Gold forks with Reba forks on your bike, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
Before starting the swap, make sure you have all the required tools, including a set of Allen wrenches, a torque wrench, a suspension fork pump, and any specific tools mentioned in the user manual for your fork.
Step 2: Remove the Recon Gold forks
To remove the Recon Gold forks, start by turning your bike upside down or placing it in a bike stand. Loosen the stem bolts and remove the handlebar from the stem. Next, remove the front wheel by releasing the quick release skewer or through axle. Then, loosen the bolts on the fork dropout and remove the front brake caliper. Finally, unscrew the bolts attaching the forks to the bike frame and carefully slide out the Recon Gold forks.
Step 3: Install the Reba forks
Once the Recon Gold forks are removed, it’s time to install the Reba forks. Begin by sliding the Reba forks into the bike frame, making sure they align with the headset and the steerer tube goes through the stem. Fasten the bolts to secure the forks to the frame.
Step 4: Reattach the front brake caliper and wheel
With the Reba forks in place, reattach the front brake caliper to the fork using the bolts provided. Ensure the rotor is aligned properly with the caliper. Then, insert the front wheel back into the dropout, making sure it is centered, and tighten the quick release skewer or through axle.
Step 5: Reinstall the handlebar
Now, reattach the handlebar to the stem and tighten the stem bolts securely. Ensure the handlebar is aligned with the front wheel and the bike frame.
Step 6: Adjust and fine-tune
Once the Reba forks are installed, it’s important to adjust and fine-tune their settings for optimal performance. Refer to the user manual provided with the Reba forks for specific instructions on adjusting the suspension, rebound, and air pressure. Use a suspension fork pump to adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding preferences.
With these steps, you can easily swap your Recon Gold forks over with Reba forks on your bike. Remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and ensure everything is properly tightened and aligned before taking your bike out for a test ride.
