The RockShox SID Select+ suspension fork is a performance-driven component engineered for competitive cross-country riders seeking weight savings without compromising ride quality. Rebuilding this fork periodically ensures optimal damping performance, prevents premature wear, and maintains overall front-end responsiveness. This guide walks through the complete rebuild process, addressing installation, fine-tuning, troubleshooting, and compatibility considerations.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link] (2–24 Nm range)
- 24mm and 10mm sockets
- 2.5mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex wrenches
- Suspension-specific grease
- RockShox Dynamic Seal Grease
- Suspension oil (recommended: RockShox 0W-30 and 5wt)
- Pick or dental tool
- Clean lint-free rags
- Oil pan
- Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher)
- Rubber mallet
- Replacement seal kit (RockShox SID Select+ specific)
Understanding the SID Select+ Fork Architecture
The SID Select+ features a Charger RL damper and DebonAir spring, optimized for XC efficiency. It combines lightweight magnesium lowers with a stiff 35mm stanchion chassis and integrates a low-speed compression adjuster. Unlike Ultimate models, the Select+ retains the same internals but forgoes external lockout levers and ultra-premium coatings.
Rebuild intervals depend on use but should occur every 50 riding hours for a lower leg service and 100–200 hours for a full damper and air spring overhaul.
Pre-Service Preparation and Disassembly
Before initiating the rebuild, clean the exterior of the fork thoroughly to prevent debris from entering internal chambers. Release air pressure from the DebonAir spring using a shock pump. Note the original settings (air pressure and compression settings) for post-service tuning.
Place the fork over an oil catch basin. Using a 2.5mm hex, remove the rebound adjuster knob from the bottom of the right leg. Then, using a 10mm socket for the damper leg and a 5mm hex for the spring leg, loosen but do not fully remove the bottom bolts. Tap them gently with a mallet to break the seals. Oil will drain; allow several minutes for full evacuation.
Slide off the lower legs carefully. Inspect bushings for scoring or wear and replace if necessary.
Air Spring Maintenance and Rebuild
Remove the air cap and Schrader valve core to ensure no residual pressure remains. With a 24mm socket, unthread the top cap from the left leg to access the DebonAir spring assembly. Gently pull the spring stack out.
Clean all components using isopropyl alcohol. Pay special attention to the negative and positive piston seals. Replace any O-rings or worn seals with parts from the rebuild kit. Apply a thin coat of RockShox Dynamic Seal Grease to each seal, and reassemble in the reverse order.
Reinstall the air spring, ensuring proper alignment and torqueing the top cap to manufacturer specs (typically 7 Nm).
Damper Service for Charger RL
The Charger RL damper is sealed and requires specific tools for a full damper bleed, typically done in a professional shop. However, replacing the damper oil and inspecting external seals can be done at home.
After removing the damper shaft, drain the existing 0W-30 fluid. Clean external parts, replace shaft seals and O-rings, and refill with new fluid to RockShox’s specified volume. Reinstall the damper shaft carefully, checking for air bubbles and ensuring no leaks occur at compression settings.
Reinstalling the Lower Legs and Oil Bath Setup
Apply a thin coat of suspension grease around the dust wiper seals in both lowers. Before installing, add the correct amount of suspension oil into each leg: generally 10 mL of 0W-30 in the damper leg and 5wt in the spring leg.
Slide the lowers onto the stanchions evenly, ensuring the bushings seat correctly. Tighten the bottom bolts to 7 Nm, and reinstall the rebound adjuster. Pump the air spring back to your desired pressure, referencing your earlier notes or rider weight charts.
Fine-Tuning Post Rebuild
After reassembly, cycle the fork 5–10 times to equalize negative and positive chambers. Adjust rebound and compression dials to factory-neutral positions before test riding. Gradually dial in settings based on trail feedback.
Use sag measurement (typically 15–20% of total travel for XC) to adjust air pressure. Evaluate rebound speed over small bumps and compression over hard hits to refine damper settings.
Troubleshooting Common SID Select+ Issues
Excessive Fork Stiction: Often caused by dry or dirty wiper seals. Ensure proper lubrication and cleanliness during installation.
Loss of Air Pressure: Check for damaged Schrader valves or improperly seated O-rings in the air spring assembly.
Dead Travel or Harsh Bottom-Outs: Indicates under-lubrication or incorrect oil volume. Drain and refill according to manufacturer specs.
Sticky Rebound Response: Caused by air bubbles in the damper oil. Ensure full oil purge and consistent fluid level during service.
Customization and Performance Optimization
While the SID Select+ doesn’t have externally tunable tokens, internal volume spacers can be installed for more progression. This requires removing the air spring and installing the appropriate spacers on the air shaft.
Riders can upgrade the Charger RL damper to a Charger Race Day unit for lower weight and more adjustability. Ensure compatibility with the current SID Select+ chassis before replacing internal components.
Compatibility With Other Drivetrain and Cockpit Systems
The SID Select+ fork accepts Boost front hubs (15x110mm) and fits tapered head tubes. It’s designed around 29-inch wheels, with clearance for up to 2.4″ tires. It is compatible with most XC and downcountry drivetrains.
Remote lockouts can be retrofitted if using RockShox’s OneLoc or TwistLoc systems, provided the damper is upgraded accordingly.
Comparison: SID Select+ vs SID Ultimate vs FOX 34 Step-Cast
The SID Select+ uses nearly identical internals to the SID Ultimate but forgoes the lighter crown and premium Kashima coating. Compared to the FOX 34 Step-Cast, the SID Select+ is lighter but less tunable externally. While the FOX offers high/low-speed compression adjustments, the SID prioritizes simplicity and weight savings for XC racing.
For riders seeking balance between cost and performance, the SID Select+ presents a strong value proposition with dependable damping and upgrade paths.
FAQs About Rebuilding the SID Select+
How often should I rebuild my SID Select+?
Lower leg service is recommended every 50 hours. A full damper and air spring rebuild should occur every 100–200 hours, depending on riding conditions.
Can I perform a damper bleed at home?
Basic maintenance like oil replacement is manageable at home, but a full internal bleed of the sealed Charger damper requires specialized tools.
What oil should I use in the SID Select+?
Use RockShox 0W-30 in the damper and 5wt oil in the air spring leg, following manufacturer volume specs.
Do I need to remove the fork from the bike?
No. The rebuild can be performed with the fork still mounted, although removal may ease access to components.
Can I install a remote lockout on the SID Select+?
Only if you upgrade to a compatible damper like the Charger Race Day that supports remote actuation.
Why does my fork feel harsh after a rebuild?
This may result from air not being fully equalized between chambers or insufficient lubrication inside the lower legs.
Conclusion
A proper rebuild of the RockShox SID Select+ suspension fork not only restores its factory performance but also extends its lifespan and ensures consistent handling on technical terrain. With careful execution and attention to detail, even home mechanics can confidently maintain this high-performance XC fork.