The Cane Creek Helm MKII Coil suspension fork is a standout in the world of mountain bike forks. Known for its performance, durability, and customization options, it’s a popular choice for riders who seek optimal control and comfort in rugged terrain. This review will delve into the key features of the Helm MKII Coil, as well as its installation, adjustment, and maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this guide will help you understand how to get the most out of your fork.

Key Features of the Cane Creek Helm MKII Coil

The Helm MKII Coil is designed for aggressive trail riders and enduro enthusiasts. It features several key attributes that distinguish it from other forks on the market:

• Coil Spring Setup: The coil spring offers a smoother, more consistent feel than air springs, making it ideal for riders who prefer a plush ride with better small bump sensitivity.
• Adjustability: The Helm MKII Coil offers a range of adjustments for riders to fine-tune the suspension. This includes high and low-speed compression, rebound, and coil spring preload.
• Performance: The fork is built to handle rough terrain with ease, offering a balance of stiffness and comfort. It is designed for aggressive riding styles, providing excellent control over drops, jumps, and technical descents.
• Durability: Cane Creek’s Helm MKII Coil is designed for maximum longevity. It features a robust chassis and high-quality internals that can withstand the rigors of demanding trail conditions.

Installation of the Helm MKII Coil

Installing the Helm MKII Coil requires a few key tools and a basic understanding of bike maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the fork on your bike.

Tools Required

• 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Suspension fork grease
• Headset press (if applicable)
• Flathead screwdriver

Installation Steps

1. Remove the old fork: Begin by loosening and removing the front wheel, brake caliper, and any other components attached to your current fork. Use the appropriate Allen wrenches [paid link] to remove the stem bolts and headset cap, then carefully slide the old fork out of the frame.
2. Prepare the Helm MKII Coil fork: Before installation, grease the headset bearing interfaces on both the fork and frame to ensure smooth steering and to prevent seizing.
3. Install the new fork: Slide the Helm MKII Coil into the frame’s head tube. Align the fork with the frame and install the headset cap and stem bolts. Tighten the bolts gradually, ensuring even torque distribution across all fasteners. Refer to your bike’s manufacturer guidelines for specific torque specifications (usually 5-6Nm).
4. Attach the front wheel and brake: Install your front wheel back onto the fork, ensuring the wheel is aligned properly. Reattach the brake caliper and ensure that all brake components are secure.
5. Test the setup: With the fork installed, check the alignment and movement. Test the headset tension to ensure smooth steering, and make sure the fork feels stable when you apply pressure.

Adjusting the Helm MKII Coil Fork

The Helm MKII Coil offers a range of adjustments that can be tailored to your specific riding style and terrain. Fine-tuning the fork ensures the best possible performance. Here’s how to make key adjustments:

Preload Adjustment

The preload setting controls the amount of sag in the fork, which is important for rider comfort and the fork’s response to terrain. Adjusting the preload ensures that the fork has the correct amount of travel before bottoming out.

• To adjust the preload: Use the preload adjuster on the top of the fork to increase or decrease the coil spring tension. If you want a firmer feel, increase the preload. For a softer, more plush ride, decrease the preload.

Compression Damping

The Helm MKII Coil features high and low-speed compression adjustments that help control how the fork behaves during different terrain conditions.

• High-speed compression: This controls how the fork responds to quick impacts, such as jumps or landings. To adjust, turn the high-speed compression dial clockwise for a firmer feel or counterclockwise for a softer feel.
• Low-speed compression: This controls how the fork behaves under slower impacts, such as when you ride over rocks or roots. Adjusting this dial affects the fork’s small bump compliance and overall comfort. Again, turning it clockwise will firm up the fork, while counterclockwise will provide more sensitivity.

Rebound Adjustment

The rebound setting controls how quickly the fork returns to its original position after compressing. A proper rebound setting helps maintain control during rough terrain.

• To adjust rebound: Turn the rebound dial on the bottom of the fork leg. Turn it clockwise to slow down the rebound or counterclockwise to increase the speed at which the fork returns to its original position. Ensure that the rebound speed matches the terrain you’re riding.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even with the best setup, issues may arise. Here are some common problems and solutions when working with the Helm MKII Coil:

Fork Bottoming Out

If the fork is bottoming out frequently, it could be due to too little preload or improper compression settings.

• Solution: Increase the preload to reduce sag, or adjust the compression settings to prevent the fork from diving too deeply during impacts.

Inconsistent Travel

Inconsistent travel could be a result of air bubbles or dirt inside the fork, or it may indicate that the fork needs a service.

• Solution: Perform a quick check to ensure the fork’s internals are clean and that there is no dirt obstructing movement. If the problem persists, a full service may be necessary.

Excessive Rebound Speed

If the fork feels too “bouncy” or returns too quickly, it might be a sign that the rebound is set too fast.

• Solution: Adjust the rebound dial to slow the return speed. Find the right balance to prevent the fork from feeling too springy.

Maintenance and Durability

The Helm MKII Coil fork is designed for longevity, but like all suspension forks, it requires regular maintenance to perform at its best.

Regular Cleaning and Lubrication

• Clean the fork regularly with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime.
• Lubricate the stanchions with suspension-specific grease to reduce friction and extend the life of the seals.
• Check for leaks: Ensure that there are no oil or air leaks, particularly around the seals, which could compromise performance.

Annual Service

• Change the oil: Over time, the fork’s oil can degrade, which affects damping and overall performance. A full oil change should be done annually or after every 50-100 riding hours, depending on the conditions.
• Inspect the coil spring: Ensure the coil spring is free of damage and properly lubricated. If you notice any signs of wear, replace it to maintain optimal performance.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

One of the Helm MKII Coil’s standout features is its ability to be customized. Riders can swap out the coil springs to adjust spring rates based on their weight, riding style, and terrain. Cane Creek offers a range of different spring options, allowing riders to fine-tune the fork for their specific needs.

Additionally, for riders seeking enhanced performance, upgrading to a higher-end damper or performing a full service with an experienced technician can provide improved small-bump sensitivity and a more controlled ride.

Conclusion

The Cane Creek Helm MKII Coil is a versatile and durable suspension fork that excels in aggressive riding conditions. Its adjustability, smooth coil spring feel, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for riders looking to optimize their bike’s suspension. By following proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance procedures, you can ensure that the Helm MKII Coil provides reliable, high-performance suspension for years to come.