Suntour NCX forks are a popular choice among cyclists for their versatility and performance. These forks provide a smooth and comfortable ride, making them ideal for various types of terrain and riding styles. However, like any other suspension fork, they require regular maintenance and adjustments to maintain optimal performance. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adjusting your Suntour NCX forks to ensure a smooth and controlled ride.
Before we dive into the adjustment process, it is important to note that the specific steps may vary depending on the model of your Suntour NCX fork. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, some adjustments may require specialized tools, so make sure you have the necessary equipment before proceeding.
The first step in adjusting your Suntour NCX forks is checking the air pressure. Most Suntour NCX forks feature an air spring, which allows you to adjust the fork’s stiffness based on your weight and preference. To check the air pressure, locate the valve on the top of the fork’s right leg. Use a suspension pump with a suitable pressure gauge to add or release air as needed. Remember to check the recommended air pressure range specified by the manufacturer, as excessive or insufficient air pressure can affect the fork’s performance.
Next, we move on to adjusting the rebound damping. Rebound damping controls how quickly the fork returns to its extended position after compressing. To adjust the rebound damping, locate the rebound knob, which is typically located on the bottom of the fork leg. Turn the knob clockwise to increase the damping and slow down the rebound, or counterclockwise to decrease the damping and speed up the rebound. Experiment with different settings to find the one that suits your riding style and preferences.
Basic Adjustments for Suntour NCX Forks
Adjusting your Suntour NCX forks properly is essential for a smooth and comfortable ride. Here are some basic adjustments you can make to optimize the performance of your forks:
1. Suspension Sag
Suspension sag refers to the amount of fork travel that gets used when you are sitting on your bike. To set the sag correctly, follow these steps:
- Find a flat surface and get on your bike with proper riding gear.
- Have a friend support your bike or use a bike stand for better stability.
- Gently lean against a wall or fence to compress the forks.
- Measure the distance between the dust seal and the O-ring on the stanchion.
- Adjust the air pressure using the valve on the top cap to achieve the recommended sag (usually around 25-30%).
2. Rebound Damping
Rebound damping controls how quickly your forks extend when they compress and is crucial for maintaining control and preventing bouncing. Follow these steps to adjust the rebound damping:
- Turn the rebound adjust knob located at the bottom of the fork leg counterclockwise until it stops.
- Turn the knob clockwise until you feel a noticeable resistance.
- Go out for a test ride and adjust the knob as needed until you find the right balance between quick response and control.
3. Lockout
The lockout feature on Suntour NCX forks allows you to disable the suspension for more efficient climbing or riding on smooth surfaces. Follow these steps to engage or disengage the lockout:
- Locate the lockout lever on the top of the fork crown.
- To engage the lockout, push the lever into the locked position.
- To disengage the lockout, push the lever back to its original position.
Remember to always refer to the user manual for your specific Suntour NCX fork model for detailed instructions and recommendations. With these basic adjustments, you’ll be able to optimize the performance of your Suntour NCX forks and enjoy a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Adjusting the Rebound
The rebound adjustment on the Suntour NCX forks allows you to control how quickly the fork returns to its original position after compression. This can help you fine-tune the fork’s performance and improve your overall riding experience.
Step 1: Understanding the Rebound
Before adjusting the rebound, it’s important to understand how it affects your ride. A faster rebound setting will make the fork return to its original position quickly, which can be ideal for rough terrain where you want the fork to absorb multiple bumps in rapid succession. On the other hand, a slower rebound setting will make the fork return more slowly, providing better traction and control on smoother trails.
Step 2: Locating the Rebound Adjuster
The rebound adjuster is typically located on the bottom of the fork’s right leg. It is usually a small knob or dial that can be turned to adjust the rebound speed.
Step 3: Adjusting the Rebound
To adjust the rebound, follow these steps:
- Start by turning the rebound adjuster knob all the way clockwise (tightening it).
- Go for a short ride to test the rebound. Make note of how the fork feels and whether it returns too quickly or too slowly.
- If the fork returns too quickly, gradually turn the rebound adjuster knob counter-clockwise (loosening it). Take short test rides after each adjustment to feel the difference.
- If the fork returns too slowly or feels sluggish, gradually turn the rebound adjuster knob clockwise (tightening it).
- Continue making small adjustments and test rides until you find the rebound setting that feels the most comfortable and suitable for your riding style and terrain.
Keep in mind that the rebound adjustment is a personal preference, and it may take some time and experimentation to find the perfect setting for you. It’s recommended to make small adjustments and test rides rather than making drastic changes all at once.
Setting the Sag
Setting the sag is an important step in adjusting your Suntour NCX forks. The sag is the amount your forks compress under your weight when you’re sitting on the bike. It’s crucial to set the sag correctly, as it affects the performance and responsiveness of your forks.
To set the sag, follow these steps:
- Measure your sag: Begin by measuring the distance between the o-ring or zip tie and the upper seal on the fork stanchion. This is called the sag measurement.
- Adjust the preload: The preload adjustment knob is located on the top of the fork leg. This knob determines how stiff or soft the forks are. Start by turning the knob fully counterclockwise to decrease the preload and make the forks softer.
- Sit on the bike: Sit on the bike in your normal riding position, with your full riding gear on. Make sure to wear the same gear that you would typically wear when riding.
- Adjust the sag: Gradually turn the preload adjustment knob clockwise to increase the preload and compress the forks. You want to adjust the sag so that it is between 20-30% of the total travel of the forks.
- Recheck the sag: Once you’ve made your initial adjustment, get off the bike and measure the sag again. If it’s within the desired range, then you’re good to go. If not, make further adjustments until you achieve the desired sag measurement.
Remember, setting the sag is a personal preference, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to experiment and find the sag setting that feels the most comfortable and responsive for your riding style.
Fine-Tuning the Performance
To get the most out of your Suntour NCX forks, you may need to fine-tune their performance. Here are some steps you can take to make adjustments:
- Compression Adjustment: The NCX forks come with a compression adjuster located on the top of the left fork leg. By turning it clockwise or counterclockwise, you can increase or decrease the compression damping, respectively. Experiment with different settings to find the one that suits your riding style and trail conditions.
- Rebound Adjustment: The rebound dial is located on the bottom of the right fork leg. By turning it clockwise or counterclockwise, you can control the rebound speed. Increase the rebound damping if the forks feel too bouncy, or decrease it if they feel too slow. Aim for a balanced and controlled rebound that allows the forks to absorb impacts without excessive bouncing.
- Preload Adjustment: Some versions of the NCX forks come with a preload adjustment feature. This allows you to adjust the tension of the coil spring, which affects the initial sag and overall firmness of the forks. Turn the preload adjuster clockwise to increase the preload and make the forks stiffer, or counterclockwise to decrease the preload and make them softer. Experiment with different preload settings to find the right amount of sag for your weight and riding style.
- Lockout: If your NCX forks are equipped with a lockout feature, you can use it to temporarily disable the suspension. This can be useful when riding on smooth surfaces or climbing steep hills. Engage the lockout by flipping the switch or turning the lever, and disengage it to restore the suspension functionality.
- Air Pressure: If your NCX forks are air-sprung, you can adjust the air pressure to fine-tune the performance. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended pressure range and use a shock pump to make adjustments. Increasing the air pressure can make the forks more supportive and less prone to bottoming out, while decreasing it can make them more plush and sensitive.
Remember to make adjustments incrementally and test the forks after each change to assess their performance. Keep a note of the settings that work best for you, as they may vary depending on factors such as rider weight, riding style, and trail conditions.
Adjusting the Compression
To adjust the compression on your Suntour NCX forks, follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine the Current Compression Setting
Before making any adjustments, it’s important to understand the current compression setting of your forks. This will help you determine how much you need to adjust it.
Step 2: Locate the Compression Knob
The compression knob is typically located on the top of the fork leg. It may be marked with a “+” and “-” symbol to indicate which way to turn it for increased or decreased compression.
Step 3: Turn the Compression Knob
Using your fingers or a suitable tool, turn the compression knob in the desired direction to adjust the compression. Turning it clockwise will usually increase compression, while turning it counterclockwise will decrease it.
Tip: Start by making small adjustments and then test the fork’s performance before making further adjustments.
Step 4: Test the Fork’s Performance
After making the desired compression adjustment, take your bike for a test ride. Pay attention to how the forks feel when riding over bumps or rough terrain. If the forks feel too soft or too stiff, you may need to further adjust the compression.
Note: Keep in mind that the ideal compression setting may vary depending on your riding style, weight, and terrain conditions. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect setting.
Changing the Spring Rate
If you find that your Suntour NCX forks are too soft or too firm for your preference, you can adjust the spring rate to achieve the desired level of suspension.
To change the spring rate, follow these steps:
- Start by turning the red knob located on top of the left fork leg counterclockwise to release the preload on the spring.
- Next, use a 10mm Allen key to remove the top cap of the suspension fork.
- Once the top cap is removed, you will have access to the spring. Replace the existing spring with one that has the desired spring rate. Make sure the new spring is compatible with your Suntour NCX forks.
- Tighten the top cap back onto the fork leg using the 10mm Allen key.
- Finally, set the desired preload on the spring by turning the red knob on top of the left fork leg clockwise. Make sure to adjust the preload according to your weight and riding style.
It is important to note that changing the spring rate can significantly affect the performance of your Suntour NCX forks. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about making these adjustments yourself.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential for keeping your Suntour NCX forks in optimal condition. Follow these guidelines to ensure your forks perform at their best:
Regular Inspections
Inspect your forks regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Check for any leaks, cracks, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Cleaning
Clean your forks regularly to remove dirt, grime, and debris. Use a mild soap and water solution to gently scrub the fork stanchions, lowers, and other components. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or abrasive materials that could damage the forks.
Lubrication
Apply lubrication to the fork seals and bushings to ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant or a specific fork oil recommended by Suntour. Apply the lubricant according to the manufacturer’s instructions and wipe away any excess.
Additionally, check for any signs of oil leakage and address the issue if necessary. Proper lubrication will help extend the lifespan of your forks and improve their performance.
Remember to consult the Suntour NCX user manual for specific maintenance instructions and recommended service intervals. Keeping your forks clean and well-maintained will ensure a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
