The RockShox SID SL Ultimate 3P is a high-performance cross-country suspension fork designed for precision, efficiency, and lightweight responsiveness. Over time, even the best components require a thorough rebuild to maintain optimal performance. This guide details the complete process of disassembling, inspecting, cleaning, and reassembling the SID SL Ultimate 3P fork. The procedure is specific to this model, ensuring that each step aligns with the fork’s internal design and performance tuning requirements.
Tools Required
- 24mm socket or wrench
- 10mm and 5mm hex keys [paid link]
- Pick or small flathead screwdriver
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Seal press or driver tool
- Suspension oil (RockShox 0W-30 or specified weight)
- Grease (Maxima Slickoleum or equivalent)
- Isopropyl alcohol (99%) and lint-free cloths
- RockShox lower leg service kit (compatible seals and foam rings)
- Syringe or oil damper bleed kit [paid link]
Disassembling the Fork
Removing the Fork from the Bike
Before starting the rebuild, remove the front wheel and brake caliper. Unbolt the headset and slide the fork out of the head tube carefully. Set aside spacers and ensure the fork is not damaged in the removal process.
Lower Leg Removal
Place the fork in a clean work stand. Remove the rebound adjuster knob at the bottom of the right leg with a 2mm hex. Use the 10mm hex to loosen and remove the foot bolt on the right leg. On the left leg, use a 5mm hex to loosen the air spring bolt. Tap each bolt lightly with a rubber mallet to disengage them from the inner shafts.
Slide the lower legs off slowly. If there’s resistance, check for sticking seals or retained oil.
Inspecting and Cleaning Components
Cleaning Internal Surfaces
Thoroughly clean the inside of the lower legs using isopropyl alcohol. Remove old lubricant, dirt, and oil residue. Use a lint-free cloth and avoid leaving any fibers behind.
Foam Ring and Seal Inspection
Inspect the foam rings and dust wiper seals. If they appear dry, cracked, or deformed, replace them. Rebuild kits include replacements to maintain proper lubrication and sealing.
Air Spring and Damper Check
Inspect the air spring assembly for any wear on the shaft or piston seals. Ensure the damper shaft moves smoothly without resistance or oil bypassing the seal. If any irregularities are found, consider a damper service or replacement.
Reassembling with New Seals
Installing New Foam Rings and Seals
Soak new foam rings in suspension oil. Insert them into the lower leg cavities. Use a seal driver to press new dust wipers into place evenly. Ensure they are seated flush and not deformed.
Lubrication and Oil Fill
Apply a light coat of suspension grease to the air spring shaft and damper. Reinsert the fork uppers into the lower legs. Carefully align them to avoid damaging the new seals. Once aligned, press down gently until the fork slides smoothly.
Add the specified volume of suspension oil (usually around 10-15ml per leg) into the lower legs before final assembly.
Reinstalling and Torqueing
Securing Foot Bolts
Thread in the foot bolts with a hex wrench. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the damper and air spring bolts to manufacturer-specified torque (typically 5.6 Nm for air spring, 7.3 Nm for damper side). Reinstall the rebound knob onto the damper shaft.
Function Check
After assembly, compress the fork fully to circulate oil and confirm full travel without binding. Check for consistent rebound and smooth damping behavior.
Troubleshooting Common Rebuild Issues
Stiction or Incomplete Travel
If the fork feels sticky or fails to achieve full travel, inspect for improperly seated seals or excessive grease on the inner legs. Recheck air pressure and oil volumes.
Oil Leakage
Persistent oil leakage after a rebuild typically points to worn or improperly installed dust wipers. Confirm that seals are not twisted and seated evenly.
Unresponsive Lockout or Damping
Inconsistent damping response can stem from incorrect damper shaft positioning or air bubbles trapped during installation. Rebleed the damper if necessary.
Customization and Performance Optimization
Volume Spacer Adjustments
The SID SL Ultimate 3P allows tuning of air spring volume using tokens. Adding tokens increases ramp-up, ideal for aggressive riding. Removing them softens the stroke and improves small bump sensitivity.
Rebound and Compression Tuning
Although externally adjustable rebound is standard, compression adjustments on the 3P remote may require fine-tuning via damper service. Ensure cables are tensioned correctly for accurate 3-position control (open, pedal, lock).
Compatibility with Other Components
The SID SL Ultimate 3P is designed for RockShox remotes and SRAM ecosystem integration. It pairs well with TwistLoc and OneLoc remotes. Ensure matchmaker compatibility for clean cockpit setup. The fork requires a Boost-spaced front hub (110mm) and is designed for 29” wheels with maximum rotor size up to 180mm.
It is not directly interchangeable with standard SID or Pike chassis due to its weight-specific internals and chassis dimensions.
Comparison with Similar Models
SID SL Ultimate 3P vs SID Ultimate
The primary difference lies in chassis weight and travel range. The SL version is optimized for cross-country racing with reduced weight and a 100mm travel limit. The standard SID Ultimate offers a stiffer chassis and extended travel up to 120mm, better suited for trail or downcountry setups.
SID SL Ultimate 3P vs FOX 32 Step-Cast
The FOX 32 SC matches the SID SL in weight and performance for XC. However, riders may prefer the RockShox model for SRAM ecosystem integration and the more refined 3P remote system, offering intuitive on-the-fly adjustments.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I rebuild the SID SL Ultimate 3P fork?
Rebuild every 50 hours for a lower leg service and every 100 hours for a full internal service, depending on riding conditions.
Q2: Can I upgrade to a 120mm air spring in this model?
No. The SID SL chassis is limited to 100mm travel by design. Installing longer travel components risks damaging the fork.
Q3: What oil volume does each leg require during a lower leg service?
Typically, each leg requires 10-15ml of 0W-30 RockShox suspension oil, but always check the latest technical service manual.
Q4: Is the 3P remote compatible with all RockShox forks?
No. It is designed specifically for forks with 3-position damper internals. Check your fork’s damper specification before pairing.
Q5: My fork locks out but still compresses slightly—is this normal?
Yes. RockShox lockout circuits allow for a small amount of compression to protect internals from damage during impacts.
Q6: Can I use third-party seals for a rebuild?
OEM seals are strongly recommended for best fit and performance. Third-party seals may affect smoothness or longevity.
Conclusion
Rebuilding the RockShox SID SL Ultimate 3P suspension fork is a meticulous yet rewarding process that ensures consistent performance in competitive cross-country conditions. With correct tools, precise steps, and attention to detail, your fork will deliver factory-level responsiveness and durability on every ride.