How to replace a road bike fork?

How to replace a road bike fork?

Fork installation should not be taken lightly, to ensure your safety in all conditions. Here's how to replace or fit a fork on a road bike.

  • Time : 1h30 min
  • Level : Medium
  • Tools : Allen wrench set | Grease | Fork cone extractor | Fork cone shim | Fork pivot saw guide | Hacksaw | Abrasive paper or half-round file | Star positioning tool (for aluminum pivot only)

Steps

  1. Remove the wheel then remove thebrake caliper.

  2. Unscrew the stem cap screw, then the stem and remove.

  3. Remove the fork by pulling it out from the bottom.
    Probikeshop tip: Take this opportunity to clean and check the condition of the headset.

  4. Remove the fork cone using the fork cone extractor, then fit it to the new fork using the fork cone driver.
    Probikeshop tip: The fork cone is a part that is usually mounted with force, so be careful not to damage your fork during this operation.

  5. Make an initial "blank" assembly of the new fork, respecting the order of assembly of the components: fork, lower headset, frame, upper headset, any spacers, then stem.

  6. Mark the cutting line for the steerer tube at stem level.

  7. Dismantle the assembly again to cut the pivot 3 mm below the line, then deburr the cut.

  8. Place the steering star in the fork pivot using the tool provided for this operation.

  9. Clean and grease the headset before reassembling the entire assembly as for "blank" assembly.

  10. Fit the stem cap, then the headset adjustment screw.
    Probikeshop tip: Do not tighten this screw, it only acts as an adjustment.

  11. Refit the brake caliper and wheel.

  12. Finish by centering the brake caliper.

Your new fork is now in place.