The RockShox SID Select+ stands out as a high-performance suspension fork, designed for serious cross-country riders looking for precision, responsiveness, and weight-conscious components. Built to strike a balance between race-day lightness and everyday durability, this model offers numerous tuning options and compatibility features that appeal to a broad range of mountain bikers. In this guide, we’ll explore every aspect of the SID Select+, from installation and tuning to maintenance and troubleshooting, to help you determine whether it’s the right choice for your ride.
Tools Required
- 6mm and 5mm hex keys [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link] with appropriate bits
- Suspension pump (compatible with Schrader valves)
- Caliper or tape measure for axle-to-crown measurement
- Crown race setting tool
- Star nut setter or threaded insert tools
- Suspension grease and fork-specific oil
- Isopropyl alcohol and clean rags
- Digital caliper [paid link] for sag measurement (optional)
Installation Overview
Installing the SID Select+ requires precision, especially when integrating with a carbon or high-end aluminum frame. Begin by verifying steerer tube length, checking clearance, and ensuring compatibility with the headset and front axle.
Steerer tube cutting should be conservative—it’s easier to cut more later than to replace a cut-too-short fork. Press the crown race securely onto the fork, ensuring it’s fully seated with the appropriate tool. Slide the fork into the head tube, align headset bearings, and install spacers and stem. Torque all bolts to manufacturer specifications, particularly the stem and top cap.
For the front axle, the SID Select+ uses a Maxle Stealth or Maxle Lite thru-axle system, which should be threaded smoothly without resistance. Axle alignment is critical to avoid binding or uneven compression during riding.
Air Spring Setup and Adjustments
The SID Select+ comes equipped with RockShox’s DebonAir+ air spring system, allowing for a plush feel early in the travel while retaining mid-stroke support.
To set up the air pressure, start by knowing your rider weight (fully geared) and reference RockShox’s air chart, typically included with the fork or available online. Use a suspension pump to achieve the target PSI. After pressurizing, cycle the fork through 20% of its travel to equalize the positive and negative air chambers.
Sag should be between 15-25% of total travel, depending on riding style. For a 120mm travel version, that translates to 18–30mm of sag. Use the O-ring or a zip tie to verify sag.
The rebound dial, located at the bottom of the right leg, should be adjusted to return the fork at a controlled speed. Start at the midpoint setting and fine-tune based on trail feedback.
Compression Tuning and Lockout
The SID Select+ features a low-speed compression adjuster and a remote lockout compatibility. The blue compression knob atop the right stanchion allows for on-the-fly tuning of trail feedback.
Turn clockwise to increase compression damping—ideal for smoother climbs or fireroad transitions. The lockout is not absolute; it has a blow-off threshold to prevent damage under unexpected hits.
For racers or those riding mixed terrain, the remote lockout system offers significant performance gains. Installation of the remote lever must ensure correct cable tension to avoid false engagements or sluggish returns.
Regular Maintenance Schedule
Routine maintenance keeps the SID Select+ performing at its peak and extends its lifespan. Follow this basic maintenance timeline:
- Every 25 hours: Wipe stanchions clean, inspect dust wipers, check air pressure and rebound.
- Every 50 hours: Lower leg service. Remove lowers, clean and re-grease foam rings, replace wiper seals if worn.
- Every 100 hours: Full damper and air spring service. Replace fork oil, inspect internal wear, and check air piston seals.
Always use fork-specific grease and oil, and ensure torques are to RockShox standards. Neglecting maintenance can lead to bushing wear or performance degradation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Stiction or Inconsistent Travel
If the fork feels sticky or fails to use full travel, inspect stanchions for contamination. Dirty or dry foam rings can cause drag. Perform a lower leg service and re-lubricate wipers with fork butter.
Sudden Loss of Air Pressure
This often signals a damaged air piston seal or Schrader valve core. Inspect for oil seepage near the valve and consider replacing the air can seals during the next full service.
Incomplete Rebound Recovery
If rebound feels slow despite adjustments, check for damper oil contamination or air trapped in the damper shaft. A full damper bleed may be necessary.
Customization and Performance Optimization
The SID Select+ allows for subtle but effective tuning. Riders can adjust volume spacers in the air spring to influence ramp-up behavior. Fewer spacers yield a linear feel, ideal for smoother trails; more spacers increase end-stroke resistance, suitable for aggressive XC courses.
Upgrade paths include swapping to a Charger Race Day damper for weight savings and firmer lockout performance. Additionally, some riders opt to replace the air spring shaft to adjust travel, typically between 100mm and 120mm.
Tire clearance and brake mount compatibility make it flexible for wheel and rotor upgrades. Riders seeking enhanced small-bump sensitivity can also experiment with lower viscosity oils or alternative seals like SKF’s low-friction wipers.
Compatibility with Drivetrain and Wheel Standards
The SID Select+ integrates seamlessly with modern mountain bike drivetrains and standards. It uses a Boost 110x15mm axle, allowing compatibility with most contemporary wheels. Rotor mounts support up to 180mm rotors without adaptors.
While not affecting drivetrain operation directly, front suspension performance influences chain retention, shifting responsiveness, and ride dynamics. Its stiffness aids in precise steering and power transfer under torque-heavy climbing.
It’s compatible with flat-mount and post-mount calipers via appropriate adaptors. Cable routing for remote lockouts is internal or external, depending on the frame.
SID Select+ vs. Competitor Forks
Fox 34 SC Performance Elite
Compared to the Fox 34 Step-Cast Performance Elite, the SID Select+ offers slightly lighter weight and more progressive damping characteristics. The SID’s Charger RL damper provides better small-bump sensitivity, while the Fox excels in mid-stroke support and stiffness.
RockShox SID Ultimate
The Ultimate version adds weight savings and a Charger Race Day 2 damper, enhancing race performance. For riders not racing at elite levels, the Select+ offers 90% of the performance at a notably lower price.
Manitou R7 Pro
The Manitou R7 is a compelling alternative for budget-conscious riders but lacks the same damping sophistication. The SID Select+ wins in adjustability and long-term serviceability.
Final Verdict: Is the SID Select+ the Best?
For serious XC and light trail riders, the SID Select+ is arguably the best blend of race-ready performance and trail-friendly durability. It provides precise handling, adjustable damping, and a tunable air spring—all in a sub-1,700g package. While high-end racers may gravitate toward the Ultimate, most riders will find the Select+ strikes the perfect balance between cost, weight, and function.
Its maintenance schedule is forgiving, tuning range is generous, and it integrates well with modern frames and drivetrains. For anyone looking to upgrade or replace a worn-out suspension fork, the RockShox SID Select+ should sit high on the shortlist.