DIY Suspension Fork Oil Change for Pike Select+

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The RockShox Pike Select+ is a high-performance suspension fork designed for aggressive mountain biking. Over time, the oil in the fork’s damper and air spring can degrade, reducing performance and comfort. Performing a suspension fork oil change is essential for maintaining the fork’s optimal performance, ensuring smoother rides, and extending the life of the fork. This guide will walk you through the process of changing the oil in your RockShox Pike Select+ fork, covering the tools required, step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting tips.

Tools Required

  • RockShox suspension oil (5wt for the damper, 0wt or 5wt for the air spring)
  • 10mm and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • 24mm socket wrench or spanner
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Fork-specific suspension fluid syringes
  • Plastic syringe or turkey baster for draining oil
  • Clean cloths and towels
  • Small bucket for used oil
  • Fork seals and wiper grease (for reassembly)

Disassembling the Pike Select+ Fork

Before you begin the oil change, make sure the bike is securely positioned in a bike stand [paid link]. This will make the process easier and ensure safety.

1. Remove the Fork from the Bike

  • Use an 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the front wheel and detach the fork from the bike. Keep all the parts organized to make reassembly easier.

2. Remove the Damper Cartridge

  • Using a 10mm Allen wrench [paid link], unscrew the lower leg bolts on the fork. Carefully slide the lowers off the fork.
  • At this point, you’ll have access to the damper and air spring system.

3. Drain the Existing Oil

  • Place a clean towel or rag under the fork to catch any residual oil.
  • Use a plastic syringe or turkey baster to remove the old oil from both the damper and air spring side. Be sure to drain as much oil as possible to avoid contamination with old fluid during reassembly.
  • Discard the used oil in an environmentally responsible manner.

4. Remove the Air Spring Cartridge

  • With the damper removed, you’ll now have access to the air spring. Use a 24mm socket or spanner to remove the top cap of the air spring assembly.
  • Take out the air spring cartridge and drain any remaining oil from this side of the fork.

Cleaning and Inspection

5. Clean the Internal Components

  • Once the fork is completely drained, clean the internal components (damper and air spring) with a clean cloth. Make sure there is no old oil or dirt left on these parts, as any debris could damage the fork.
  • Inspect the fork seals and wiper seals for any damage or wear. If they appear worn out, replace them with new ones during the reassembly process.

6. Inspect the Damper and Air Spring

  • Check the damper cartridge and air spring for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. The seals should be intact, and the internals should appear clean and free of debris.
  • If any of the internal components appear damaged, it is recommended to replace them before proceeding with the oil change.

Reassembling the Pike Select+ Fork

7. Install Fresh Oil in the Damper

  • Fill the damper side of the fork with fresh RockShox suspension oil. Typically, you’ll use 5wt oil for the damper side. Use a fork-specific syringe for precise filling. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended oil volume and ensure the correct oil level.

8. Install Fresh Oil in the Air Spring

  • For the air spring side, RockShox recommends using 0wt or 5wt oil, depending on your preference and riding conditions. The oil here helps lubricate the air spring and ensures smooth travel. Fill the air spring side with the recommended amount of oil.

9. Reinstall the Air Spring Cartridge

  • Once the air spring is filled with the appropriate oil, reinstall the air spring cartridge into the fork’s lowers.
  • Secure it tightly by screwing the top cap back onto the air spring assembly.

10. Reassemble the Fork

  • Slide the damper back into the lowers, and carefully reinstall the lowers onto the fork stanchions.
  • Tighten the lower leg bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings, typically around 10Nm.

11. Reinstall the Fork on the Bike

  • After the fork is fully reassembled, reinstall the fork on the bike by securing the headset and attaching the front wheel.
  • Ensure everything is tightened properly, and check the alignment of the fork.

Setting the Correct Air Pressure

12. Adjust the Air Pressure in the Fork

  • The Pike Select+ uses an air spring to adjust the fork’s travel. Adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding preferences.
  • Use a shock pump to add air to the fork. A general starting point is 70-80 PSI for riders between 150-180 lbs, but you should adjust according to personal preference and riding conditions.

13. Check for Proper Functioning

  • Once the air pressure is set, compress the fork a few times to check for smooth travel. If you feel any resistance, the oil change may not have been performed properly, or there may be issues with the fork’s internals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

14. Fork Sticking or Not Returning Smoothly

  • If the fork is sticking or not returning to its original position smoothly, check that the damper oil level is correct. Insufficient oil can cause poor performance.
  • Also, check for air spring issues. If the air pressure is too high or too low, it could affect the fork’s responsiveness.

15. Leaking Oil

  • If you notice oil leaking from the fork, check that the seals are properly installed. Worn or improperly seated seals can cause oil leaks.
  • If the leak persists, the damper or air spring may need to be disassembled and checked for internal damage.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

16. Adjusting the Compression and Rebound

  • The Pike Select+ offers adjustments for compression and rebound. Use these controls to fine-tune the fork for your specific riding style. If you want a firmer feel, increase the compression. For smoother, faster rebound, adjust the rebound dial.

17. Fine-Tuning the Air Spring

  • Depending on your riding style and terrain, you may want to adjust the air spring to optimize the fork’s performance. Changing the air pressure or adding tokens can help tailor the fork’s behavior to your specific needs.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The RockShox Pike Select+ is compatible with most standard mountain bike drivetrains. However, when upgrading or replacing components like the headset or bottom bracket, ensure that they are compatible with the specific size and geometry of your fork. Compatibility is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and ensuring that all parts work together seamlessly.

By following these detailed steps for an oil change and performing regular maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your RockShox Pike Select+ and keep it performing at its best.