The RockShox SID SL Ultimate 3P is a purpose-built suspension fork designed to deliver uncompromising performance for cross-country riders who demand precision, weight savings, and control. With a refined damper, three-position remote lockout, and a sleek, lightweight chassis, it’s tailored to excel in competitive and demanding XC trail environments. This guide will walk you through the complete lifecycle of owning and maintaining the SID SL Ultimate 3P, from installation to fine-tuning and long-term care.

Tools Required

• Torque wrench [paid link] with 5Nm and 8Nm settings
• Star nut setter or compression plug (for carbon steerers)
• Crown race setting tool
• Allen keys [paid link]: 2mm, 4mm, 5mm
• Suspension pump
• RockShox Maxima Plush fluid (recommended)
• Clean microfiber cloths
• Caliper alignment tool (optional but recommended)

Installation of the SID SL Ultimate 3P

Installing the SID SL Ultimate 3P requires attention to headset compatibility, steerer tube preparation, and brake/caliper alignment. Begin by confirming that your frame accepts a 29” fork with a 44mm offset and tapered steerer. If using a carbon steerer, a compression plug is mandatory.

Before inserting the fork, set the crown race using the correct tool. Cut the steerer tube to match your frame and headset stack height, allowing for at least 3mm of clearance below the top cap. Always deburr and clean the steerer tube ends after cutting.

Insert the fork into the headtube, assemble the headset, and preload the headset bearings before torquing the stem bolts. Mount the front brake caliper and rotor, then align the caliper properly to prevent pad rub. Finally, connect the 3P remote system, routing the cable cleanly along the handlebar and fork leg.

Adjustment of Air Spring and Damping Settings

Correct air pressure and damping adjustment ensure optimal performance. Start by setting the sag—typically 15-25% of the total travel. Use a suspension pump to match the air pressure with your rider weight as per RockShox’s PSI chart.

The Charger Race Day 2 damper in the SID SL Ultimate 3P features a 3-position remote (Open, Pedal, Lock). These modes allow for on-the-fly adjustment. The Open setting offers full plush movement for rough trails. The Pedal mode stiffens the damping slightly, ideal for rolling terrain. The Lock setting is rigid, best for climbs or sprints.

The rebound adjuster is located at the bottom of the right leg. Set the rebound speed to suit your terrain and preference—faster rebound for smoother trails, slower for rocky or root-laden courses.

Maintenance Best Practices for Long-Term Performance

Routine maintenance extends the lifespan of your fork and keeps performance consistent. Clean the stanchions after every ride with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent contamination of the wiper seals.

Every 50 hours of ride time, perform a lower leg service. This includes removing the lowers, cleaning the bushings, and replacing the bath oil with Maxima Plush. Every 100-200 hours (or annually), perform a full damper and air spring service. This ensures internal seals and fluids are refreshed and function as intended.

Avoid using high-pressure washers near the seals and always store the bike with the fork uncompressed to prevent air spring migration.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Incorrect fork performance often stems from setup errors. If the fork feels harsh, the air pressure may be too high or rebound too fast. Conversely, a wallowy feel might indicate under-inflation or a too-slow rebound setting.

Inconsistent lockout performance can be caused by improper cable tension or a kinked housing. Ensure the 3P remote pulls cleanly across all positions. If the fork won’t lock out fully, check the damper fluid level and bleed the remote system if necessary.

If the fork leaks oil or air pressure drops over time, inspect the air spring seals or damper shaft for wear or damage.

Customization and Performance Optimization

The SID SL Ultimate 3P offers opportunities for personalization. Riders can tune the air spring curve using Bottomless Tokens, allowing for more progressive or linear travel characteristics depending on terrain.

Aftermarket remote levers with ergonomic improvements can replace the stock unit. Additionally, pairing the fork with RockShox’s Reverb AXS seatpost or SRAM Eagle drivetrain ensures optimal remote control integration.

For racers, shaving grams is often a priority. Switching to a carbon steerer tube compression plug and lightweight bolt kits can further reduce weight without sacrificing strength.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to the standard SID SL or SID Ultimate, the SID SL Ultimate 3P offers the lightest chassis paired with a superior 3-position damper. It targets elite XC racers who benefit from rapid terrain adaptation via the 3P remote.

While the Fox 32 Step-Cast is a primary competitor, the SID SL Ultimate 3P has a marginal weight advantage and slightly more tunable small-bump compliance. Riders prioritizing stiffness and a firm lockout often lean toward the RockShox system.

For trail-oriented use, the standard SID (non-SL) with a 35mm chassis and more travel (120mm) provides greater stiffness, though at the expense of weight.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain and Control Systems

The SID SL Ultimate 3P is fully compatible with RockShox’s TwistLoc remote and SRAM’s MatchMaker X clamp system, allowing for clean integration with Eagle AXS controllers.

Brake compatibility is optimized for flat-mount or post-mount disc systems, and the 32mm stanchions accommodate standard Boost spacing (110mm axle). Ensure rotor size aligns with fork max specs—usually 160mm to 180mm with the correct adapter.

Front wheel compatibility requires a 15x110mm thru-axle, and the fork crown has clearance for modern 29” XC tires up to 2.4” wide.

FAQs

1. Can the SID SL Ultimate 3P be converted to 120mm travel?
No, the SID SL chassis is specifically tuned for 100mm travel and does not support longer travel due to structural limitations.

2. How often should I service the SID SL Ultimate 3P?
Lower leg service is recommended every 50 hours of riding, and a full service including damper and air spring should be performed every 100-200 hours.

3. What’s the difference between the 3P and standard remote versions?
The 3P remote allows for Open, Pedal, and Lock modes, offering finer control than the standard two-position remote.

4. Is the SID SL Ultimate 3P suitable for aggressive trail riding?
No, it’s designed for cross-country use. For aggressive trails, consider the standard SID or Pike.

5. How do I check if my bike frame is compatible?
Ensure your frame supports a tapered steerer, 29” wheels, and Boost spacing. Consult your frame manufacturer for specific compatibility.

6. Why is my fork not locking out completely?
Check the 3P cable tension, remote alignment, and damper oil level. Bleeding the remote system may also resolve the issue.