Maintaining your RockShox Lyrik Select+ suspension fork is essential for ensuring a smooth, responsive ride and prolonging its lifespan. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned rider, understanding how to properly care for and maintain your Lyrik Select+ will keep your bike performing at its best. This guide covers everything you need to know about installation, adjustment, troubleshooting, and customization for your Lyrik Select+, along with a comparison to similar models and compatibility insights.
Tools Required
- RockShox suspension oil
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 8mm hex wrench
- 10mm and 5mm socket wrenches
- Flathead screwdriver
- Clean rags
- Oil bath container
- Pump with appropriate pressure gauge
- Suspension grease
- Fork seal press
Installation of the RockShox Lyrik Select+
Step 1: Prepare the Fork and Frame
Before installing the Lyrik Select+ on your bike, ensure your frame is compatible with the fork’s specifications, including the steerer tube diameter and travel length. Clean the headset and ensure there is no debris that could cause improper installation.
Step 2: Install the Fork into the Headset
Slide the Lyrik Select+ fork’s steerer tube into the headset. Align the fork with the head tube and ensure the fork’s axle is positioned correctly. Tighten the headset with an appropriate torque setting, typically around 8Nm.
Step 3: Attach the Wheel and Adjust Axle
Attach the front wheel and make sure the fork is centered. For through-axle systems, ensure the axle is tightened securely and torque it to the recommended specifications. This ensures a solid connection between the wheel and the fork.
Step 4: Install the Brake Caliper and Handlebar
Mount the brake caliper and check for proper alignment with the rotor. Adjust the handlebars to your preferred position. Finally, adjust the brake and shift levers for optimal comfort.
Adjusting Your Lyrik Select+ Fork
Rebound Adjustment
The rebound adjustment knob on the Lyrik Select+ helps control how quickly the fork returns after compressing. Adjust it based on your riding preferences:
- Faster rebound: Turn the knob counterclockwise for quicker fork return.
- Slower rebound: Turn the knob clockwise for a more controlled return.
Compression Damping
Compression damping affects how the fork responds to impacts and rough terrain. The Lyrik Select+ features external low-speed compression adjustment:
- Higher compression damping: Turn the knob clockwise to make the fork stiffer for smoother trails.
- Lower compression damping: Turn the knob counterclockwise to allow for more travel on rougher terrain.
Make adjustments in small increments and test ride your bike after each change to find the ideal setting for your riding style.
Air Pressure Adjustment
Set the air pressure according to your weight, riding style, and terrain. The Lyrik Select+ uses a single-air chamber, which should be adjusted using the air valve located on the top of the fork:
- Check the recommended air pressure for your body weight in the owner’s manual.
- Use a shock pump to inflate or deflate the fork to the recommended pressure.
- After adjusting, test the fork’s sag by pushing down on the handlebars. Aim for about 20-30% sag, depending on your riding style.
Regular Maintenance for Lyrik Select+ Fork
Cleaning and Lubrication
Regularly clean the fork stanchions to prevent dirt and debris from entering the seals. Use a clean rag to wipe down the fork, especially after muddy rides. Lubricate the stanchions with suspension grease to keep the seals functioning correctly. Apply grease sparingly around the seal area and wipe away excess.
Fork Oil Change
Fork oil maintains the damping performance of your suspension. Over time, the oil breaks down and loses its ability to dampen properly. Change the fork oil every 50-100 hours of riding or when you notice a decrease in performance. Here’s how:
- Remove the fork from the bike and place it in a clean workspace.
- Disassemble the fork by removing the lowers and draining the old oil.
- Refill the fork with the recommended suspension oil, ensuring you use the correct type and amount specified in the manual.
- Reassemble the fork and check for smooth operation before reinstalling it on your bike.
Seals Inspection and Replacement
Inspect the fork seals every 100-150 hours of riding or after every major ride in harsh conditions. The seals can wear out or become damaged, leading to oil leaks or contamination. If you notice any signs of oil leakage or reduced performance, replace the seals. To do so:
- Remove the fork from the bike and remove the lower leg assembly.
- Carefully extract the old seals using a fork seal tool.
- Clean the area thoroughly and install the new seals, ensuring they are properly seated.
- Apply suspension grease to the new seals to prolong their lifespan.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fork Bottoming Out
If you experience bottoming out frequently, check the air pressure and make sure it matches the recommended settings for your weight and riding style. Also, consider increasing the compression damping or adjusting the rebound to reduce the likelihood of bottoming out.
Noisy Fork
If you notice a squeaky or grinding noise, it could be due to insufficient lubrication on the stanchions or wear in the seals. Clean and lubricate the stanchions regularly and inspect the seals for any damage.
Poor Performance or Stiffness
If your fork feels stiff or unresponsive, it could be due to air pressure that is too high or the oil needing replacement. Adjust the air pressure and change the oil to restore smoothness and performance.
Customizing Your Lyrik Select+ Fork for Better Performance
Fine-Tuning Damping Settings
The Lyrik Select+ offers precise adjustments for both compression and rebound damping. Tailor these settings based on the type of terrain you ride most often. For aggressive downhill riding, increase compression damping for better control, and fine-tune the rebound to allow the fork to return quickly without bouncing.
Upgrading to Air Shaft or Spring
If you ride a variety of terrain, consider swapping the air shaft or spring to adjust the fork’s travel. A longer air shaft will provide more travel for rough, technical descents, while a shorter air shaft might be better suited for cross-country riding.
Comparison with Similar Models
Lyrik Select+ vs. Pike Select+
While both forks offer exceptional performance, the Lyrik Select+ is designed for more aggressive riding with its higher travel range (up to 180mm), making it ideal for enduro and downhill riders. In contrast, the Pike Select+ is better suited for cross-country and all-mountain riding with a travel range of up to 160mm. The Lyrik Select+ also features a sturdier chassis, providing added durability for rougher terrain.
Lyrik Select+ vs. Zeb
The Zeb fork is a step up in terms of stiffness and travel, offering up to 190mm of travel, which is ideal for riders tackling extreme downhill trails. The Lyrik Select+, while slightly less travel, provides a more balanced feel for aggressive all-mountain riders. Zeb is a great option if you’re looking for a fork to handle the most demanding trails, but the Lyrik Select+ offers excellent versatility and performance for a broader range of riders.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The RockShox Lyrik Select+ fork is compatible with most modern drivetrains, including 1x and 2x systems. However, you should ensure that the fork’s axle type (through-axle or quick-release) is compatible with your wheel hub. The Lyrik Select+ can be used with both boost and non-boost hubs, but always double-check the axle standards to ensure proper fitment.
If you are upgrading from a different suspension fork, be sure to verify that your bike’s headset, axle, and brake mounts match the specifications of the Lyrik Select+ for a seamless installation.