I have a question about a mountain bike fork?

Question

I recently bought a brand new Specialized XC Pro Full Suspension Mountain Bike, and would like to upgrade the front fork to a 2011 Fox F100 RLC Fork. I currently have the Rock Shox Reba SL on there. I like it a lot but I would think that the fox would have a little better performance. I am not sure if I should upgrade to a fox or if the reba is a better choice. I have not played around with the controls much on my Reba SL so maybe if I play around with them I will enjoy it a little more, idk. How do these two shocks differ. My main concern with the one that I have now (the Reba) is that the handling, when it comes to rocky terrain is pretty rough and not very polished. The way that the shock handles real rocky situations is not great. Any suggestions, or info would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I have both Reba and a RLC both do a great job WHEN set-up correctly. You need to take some time to dial in the settings on the Reba. The only thing I've see a difference between the two is the Fox flex's less, most riders will never feel this unless you are a very aggressive rider. Stay with the Reba and tune it, you will not be disappointed, the rocks are showing you the current damping rates are not correct and check the sag while you are at it.

Answer 2

Shocks can't do everything. You still should avoid the biggest rocks and bumps, and the shocks won't completely absorb them, just dampen the impact. With that in mind, I would advise you to ride for a while longer, at least a few months, to see if you can't get the Reba dialed in and learn its tendencies. RockShox is a big presence in the suspension community, and it would be odd for them to sell a crap fork.

Answer 3

Reba is a serious fork and should be able to be dialed in for most any condition. I'd take it to a pro and see if they have some suggestions before doling out more cash for another fork.

Answer 4

nice