Comparing Pike Select+ Suspension Fork to Other Top Models

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Introduction

The Pike Select+ from RockShox is a high-performance suspension fork designed for serious riders who demand versatility and top-notch performance across a range of trail conditions. Known for its exceptional adjustability and smooth performance, the Pike Select+ offers riders a solid blend of reliability and innovation. In this guide, we will dive deep into its installation, adjustment, maintenance, and performance optimization, as well as compare it to other leading suspension forks on the market. This comprehensive guide will help riders determine if the Pike Select+ is the right fit for their bike setup.

Installation of the Pike Select+ Suspension Fork

Installing the Pike Select+ suspension fork requires careful attention to detail to ensure safety and optimal performance. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the installation process.

Tools Required:

Installation Steps:

  1. Prepare the Bike Frame: Start by ensuring your bike’s head tube is clean and free of debris. Apply some grease to the headset bearings to ensure smooth rotation once the fork is installed.
  2. Remove the Old Fork: If replacing an existing fork, use the 5mm Allen wrench to remove the stem and handlebar. Next, remove the headset spacer and loosen the stem bolts. Once loose, carefully slide out the old fork.
  3. Install the Pike Select+: Slide the Pike Select+ into the bike’s head tube. Ensure the fork’s steerer tube is properly aligned with the frame’s head tube and that the dropouts are positioned correctly.
  4. Reattach the Stem and Handlebar: Tighten the stem bolts and ensure the handlebar is correctly aligned. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the recommended torque setting (usually around 5Nm).
  5. Install the Fork Axle: Use a 15mm fork axle tool to secure the wheel axle through the fork’s dropouts, ensuring it is tightly fastened.
  6. Set the Air Pressure and Rebound Settings: Use the air spring adjustment to set the correct pressure based on your weight and riding style. Adjust the rebound damping to your preference.
  7. Final Checks: After installation, ensure the fork moves freely and that there are no strange noises or creaks. Test the suspension by compressing it and checking for smooth action.

Adjustment of the Pike Select+ Suspension Fork

The Pike Select+ is designed to offer multiple adjustment options for fine-tuning to your specific riding needs. Proper adjustment is crucial to achieving the best performance from your fork.

Key Adjustments:

  • Air Spring Pressure: Adjusting the air spring pressure is one of the most critical settings. To achieve optimal performance, the pressure should be set based on your weight and riding style. Use the recommended charts or make small incremental adjustments during test rides.
  • Rebound Damping: The rebound controls how quickly the fork returns to its extended position after compressing. Set the rebound damping to a level where the fork is neither too slow (causing the bike to feel sluggish) nor too fast (leading to a harsh ride).
  • Compression Damping: The compression damping controls how the fork reacts to bumps and rough terrain. Adjusting this setting helps with support on larger impacts while maintaining comfort on smaller trail features.
  • Volume Spacers: If you prefer a firmer or more progressive feel during compression, adding or removing volume spacers can make a significant difference in how the fork behaves under heavy loads.

Maintenance of the Pike Select+ Suspension Fork

Routine maintenance is essential to ensure that the Pike Select+ suspension fork continues to perform at its best. Below are the maintenance tasks you should perform regularly:

Fork Cleaning and Lubrication:

  1. Clean the Stanchions Regularly: After each ride, clean the fork stanchions using a clean rag and mild soap. This removes dirt and debris that may affect the fork’s performance. Be careful not to damage the fork seals while cleaning.
  2. Lubricate the Seals: Apply a small amount of suspension grease to the fork seals to keep them lubricated and prevent dirt ingress. This will help maintain the smoothness of the fork’s movement.
  3. Air Pressure Check: Regularly check the air pressure in the fork’s air spring, especially if there are significant temperature changes or after long rides. Adjust as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Regular Service:

  1. Complete Fork Service (Every 200-300 Hours): Every 200-300 hours of riding, or once a year, perform a full fork service. This involves draining the oil, inspecting the damper and air spring, and replacing worn parts. This will ensure long-term reliability and prevent any performance degradation.
  2. Damper and Seals Maintenance: Over time, the fork’s damper can lose its oil or degrade in performance. Rebuilding the damper and replacing the seals regularly will keep the fork running smoothly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Pike Select+ is a robust fork, riders may encounter occasional issues. Here are common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Fork Not Returning to Full Extension:

  • Cause: This could be caused by low air pressure or an improperly adjusted rebound setting.
  • Solution: Check the air pressure and adjust it according to your weight. If the rebound is too slow, increase the rebound damping.

Unusual Noises:

  • Cause: Creaking or clicking noises could be caused by loose components, dirt in the suspension seals, or improper lubrication.
  • Solution: Ensure all bolts and the axle are tightened properly. Clean and lubricate the fork’s seals, and check for any worn components.

Insufficient Suspension Travel:

  • Cause: This may be a result of incorrect air pressure or too many volume spacers in the air spring.
  • Solution: Adjust the air spring pressure or remove volume spacers to regain the proper amount of suspension travel.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Pike Select+ offers a wide range of customization options to optimize its performance for different riding styles. Whether you are an aggressive trail rider or a cross-country racer, fine-tuning your suspension fork can significantly enhance your riding experience.

Air Spring Volume Adjustment:

  • Add or Remove Volume Spacers: This allows you to adjust the fork’s spring curve. Riders who want a more progressive feel can add spacers, while those looking for a linear spring curve can remove them.

Fine-Tune Compression and Rebound:

  • Experiment with different compression and rebound settings to find the optimal balance between comfort and support for your specific riding style and terrain.

Upgrade to a Charger Damper:

  • If you find that the standard damper doesn’t provide enough support or adjustability, upgrading to the Charger damper offers better performance for aggressive riding and high-speed impacts.

Comparison with Other Top Suspension Forks

The Pike Select+ competes with several top-tier suspension forks on the market. Here’s a comparison with two other leading models: the Fox 36 Performance Elite and the RockShox Yari RC.

Pike Select+ vs Fox 36 Performance Elite:

  • Performance: The Fox 36 offers superior high-speed damping, providing better control on fast descents, but the Pike Select+ is slightly lighter and more responsive to small bumps.
  • Adjustability: Both forks provide extensive adjustment options, but the Pike Select+ is often considered easier to dial in for a wider range of riders.
  • Price: The Fox 36 tends to be more expensive, making the Pike Select+ a more budget-friendly option for those who still need excellent performance.

Pike Select+ vs RockShox Yari RC:

  • Performance: The Yari RC is more entry-level compared to the Pike Select+, with slightly less refined damping and fewer adjustability options.
  • Weight: The Pike Select+ is lighter than the Yari RC, offering a better power-to-weight ratio for competitive riders.
  • Price: The Yari RC is significantly cheaper, but the Pike Select+ offers more advanced technology for a relatively small price increase.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Pike Select+ is designed to be compatible with a wide range of drivetrain components, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing compatible parts for your bike build.

Headset Compatibility:

  • The Pike Select+ is compatible with most modern headsets, including tapered and straight head tubes. Be sure to select the appropriate headset for your frame to ensure proper installation.

Brake Mount Compatibility:

  • The fork features Post Mount 180mm brake mounts, making it compatible with most disc brake systems. Check your brake system’s specifications to ensure the correct size rotors are used.

Axle Compatibility:

  • The Pike Select+ uses a 15mm Maxle Stealth thru-axle, ensuring a secure connection to the wheel. Ensure your wheelset supports this axle type for optimal performance.

Conclusion

The Pike Select+ suspension fork from RockShox stands out for its versatility, adjustability, and solid performance, making it a top contender in the market for riders who demand a reliable fork. While it competes with other high-end forks like the Fox 36 and RockShox Yari RC, it offers an excellent balance of performance, weight, and price. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current suspension or build a new bike, the Pike Select+ provides all the features necessary to handle a variety of trail conditions, from technical descents to fast-flowing cross-country rides.