How to replace a road bike fork?

Fitting a fork should not be taken lightly in order to ensure your safety in all conditions. Here are the steps to replace or fit a fork on a road bike.

• Time: 1h30 min
• Level: Intermediate
• Tools: Set of Allen keys | Grease | Fork crown race extractor | Fork crown race setter | Steerer cutting guide | Hacksaw | Abrasive paper or half-round file | Star nut installation tool (only for an aluminium steerer)

Steps

1. Remove the wheel then dismount the brake calliper.
   
   
2. Unscrew the stem top cap bolt then the stem and remove everything.
   
   
3. Remove the fork by sliding it out from below.
   Probikeshop tip: Take the opportunity to clean and check the condition of the headset.
   
   
4. Remove the fork crown race using the extractor then fit it onto the new fork using the crown race setter.
   Probikeshop tip: The crown race is generally a press-fit part, take care not to damage your fork during this operation.
   
   
5. Do a first "dry run" assembly of the new fork, carefully following the order of installation of the components: the fork, the lower headset cup, the frame, the upper headset cup, any spacers, then the stem.
   
   
6. Mark the cutting line on the steerer at the stem.
   
   
7. Disassemble the whole unit again to cut the steerer 3 mm below the line, then deburr the cut.
   
   
8. Place the star nut in the fork steerer using the tool provided for this operation.
   
   
9. Clean and grease the headset before reassembling the whole unit as during the dry run assembly.
   
   
10. Place the stem top cap then the preload bolt.
    Probikeshop tip: Do not tighten this bolt, it only acts as a preload adjuster.
    
    
11. Refit the brake calliper and the wheel.
    
    
12. Finish by centring the brake calliper.

Your new fork is now in place.