Step-by-Step: Rebuilding Your Selva S Suspension Fork

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Introduction

The Selva S suspension fork by Formula is a high-performance fork designed for demanding riders who require a blend of durability and precise suspension control. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, rebuilding and maintaining your Selva S fork is essential for keeping it in optimal condition. This guide walks you through each step of rebuilding the Selva S suspension fork, covering the tools required, installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.

Tools Required

  • 5mm and 6mm hex wrenches
  • Suspension fork oil (viscosity based on your rider weight and riding style)
  • Clean rag or towel
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • 32mm or 34mm open-end wrenches
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Grease (for fork parts and seals)
  • Suspension fork seal driver tool
  • Cleaning brush (soft bristles)
  • Air pump (for setting air pressure)

Disassembly of the Selva S Suspension Fork

Before starting the rebuild process, ensure the fork is completely removed from the bike and the bike is securely placed on a stand. Follow these steps to disassemble the Selva S suspension fork:

  1. Remove the wheel: Begin by detaching the front wheel from the bike, ensuring you unclip any brake cables or disc brake components if applicable.
  2. Disconnect the brake caliper: If the fork has integrated brake mounts, unbolt the brake caliper from the fork. Set it aside carefully.
  3. Release air pressure: Use an air pump to release the air pressure from the positive and negative air chambers, making sure all air is expelled.
  4. Remove the fork from the bike: Loosen and remove the fork’s headset clamp and slide the fork out of the frame. Set it on a clean work surface.
  5. Remove the axle: Depending on the specific design, either unbolt the quick-release axle or use a 5mm hex wrench to remove a thru-axle. Keep all components organized.
  6. Disassemble the damper and spring components: Start by loosening the damper assembly with a 6mm hex wrench. Follow this by unscrewing the top cap and pulling out the spring and damper unit.

Cleaning the Components

Once you’ve fully disassembled the fork, thorough cleaning is crucial to ensure smooth operation after the rebuild:

  1. Clean the stanchions: Using a soft rag, wipe down the fork’s stanchions (the upper portion of the fork legs). Be sure to remove all dirt and debris.
  2. Wash the lowers: Use a cleaning brush to scrub the lower legs of the fork. For stubborn dirt, a mild detergent solution can be used.
  3. Inspect the seals: Check for any visible damage to the seals. If they appear worn or cracked, replace them to avoid leakage during the rebuild process.
  4. Clean the internal parts: Carefully clean the damper, spring, and air components. Use a rag to remove any old suspension fluid. A gentle brush can help remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas.

Rebuilding the Fork

After cleaning the components, it’s time to begin the rebuild. Reassembly should be done carefully and methodically to ensure everything is correctly lubricated and sealed.

Rebuilding the Air Spring

  1. Install the air spring assembly: Begin by inserting the air spring into the lower leg of the fork. Align the parts as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Lubricate the O-rings: Apply a thin layer of suspension grease to the O-rings of the air spring to ensure smooth movement and a good seal.
  3. Reinstall the top cap and spring: Once the air spring is in place, reinstall the top cap and the spring. Tighten it with the appropriate tool, ensuring a secure fit.

Installing the Damper

  1. Lubricate the damper shaft: Apply a light coat of fork oil to the damper shaft to prevent excessive wear and ensure smooth operation.
  2. Insert the damper: Place the damper back into the lower leg and secure it with the appropriate fasteners. Make sure it is aligned properly.
  3. Secure the damper top cap: Tighten the damper top cap with a 6mm hex wrench, ensuring it’s firm but not over-tightened.

Fork Oil and Seals

  1. Add suspension oil: Fill the fork with the appropriate suspension oil. The Selva S fork has different oil volume requirements depending on the specific configuration (travel, damping characteristics). Refer to the owner’s manual for accurate specifications.
  2. Install new seals: Use a suspension seal driver tool to insert the new seals into the lowers. This step is crucial for preventing air and oil leaks.
  3. Lubricate the fork seals: Before installing the seals, apply a thin layer of suspension fluid or grease to ensure the seals are properly lubricated, reducing the chances of wear.

Reassembly

Once all internal components are rebuilt, it’s time to reassemble the fork:

  1. Reinstall the lowers: Carefully slide the lowers back onto the stanchions, ensuring they are properly aligned with the fork’s structure.
  2. Tighten the lower bolts: Secure the lower legs to the upper section with a torque wrench [paid link], following the torque specifications in the manual to avoid damaging the fork.
  3. Reinstall the axle: If you removed a thru-axle or quick-release, carefully reinstall it to the fork and ensure it is tight.
  4. Attach the brake caliper: Reattach the brake caliper to the fork if applicable.

Adjusting the Fork

Once the fork is fully reassembled, it’s important to adjust it to your preferences:

  1. Set air pressure: Use an air pump to adjust the air pressure in the positive and negative chambers. The air pressure should be adjusted according to your rider weight and riding style. A general starting point is 15-20% of the total travel in the negative chamber.
  2. Check rebound and compression damping: Adjust the rebound and compression damping knobs to your desired settings. For a smoother ride, reduce rebound damping to allow the fork to extend more quickly after compression. Increase compression damping for better control on rough terrain.
  3. Fine-tune your settings: Ride the bike and make minor adjustments to fine-tune the fork to your preferences. This might include small changes to air pressure or damping settings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

After rebuilding your Selva S suspension fork, here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them:

  • Fork feels too stiff or too soft: Check the air pressure settings. If the fork feels too stiff, decrease the air pressure; if it’s too soft, increase the air pressure in the positive chamber.
  • Rebound issues: If the fork is too slow to return or too fast, adjust the rebound damping knob accordingly. Start with small adjustments and test the fork after each change.
  • Oil leaks: If you notice oil leaking from the seals, this is usually a sign that the seals are worn or improperly installed. Replace the seals and ensure they are correctly lubricated during installation.

Customization and Performance Optimization

The Selva S suspension fork offers several opportunities for customization:

  • Adjusting travel: Some models of the Selva S fork allow you to adjust the travel to suit your riding needs. Reducing travel can enhance stability on smoother terrain, while increasing travel can provide better absorption on rougher tracks.
  • Custom air spring setup: Fine-tune the negative and positive air pressures to suit your riding style, whether you prefer a plush, supple feel or a more controlled, firm response.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Selva S fork is designed to be compatible with most modern road bike and mountain bike drivetrains. However, it’s important to check for compatibility with your bike’s headtube size, axle type, and disc brake system before making any modifications. If in doubt, consult with your local bike shop to ensure proper fitment.