The RockShox SID Select+ is a high-performance cross-country suspension fork tailored for riders demanding race-ready precision without stepping into the top-tier Ultimate series. Built on the same chassis as its pricier sibling, the Select+ provides excellent damping control, lighter weight, and improved adjustability. This guide walks through every technical aspect of the SID Select+ fork, from installation to performance optimization, helping you evaluate whether it’s the right upgrade for your ride.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link] with compatible hex bits
- Star nut setter (if using a new steerer)
- Crown race setting tool
- Shock pump (with PSI gauge)
- Suspension grease
- Allen keys [paid link] (4mm, 5mm, 6mm)
- Suspension fluid (RockShox recommended)
- Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol
- Digital calipers (optional, for sag setup)
Installation of the SID Select+
Installing the SID Select+ requires a precise approach to ensure fork integrity and safety. The fork comes with a tapered steerer and Boost axle spacing (15x110mm), compatible with most modern XC frames and wheels.
Begin by cutting the steerer tube to fit your frame’s headtube and cockpit setup. Use a pipe cutter or saw guide for a clean cut. Install the star nut using a setter tool, ensuring it seats straight. Press in the crown race compatible with your headset.
Grease the headset bearings and assemble the fork into the headtube, tightening the stem bolts and top cap. Attach the brake caliper to the post-mount interface and align it with the rotor. Always torque the axle to manufacturer specifications.
SID Select+ includes the DebonAir+ spring and Charger RL damper. Before riding, set your sag using a shock pump. Typically, 15-25% sag is ideal for XC use, which can be calculated based on travel (100-120mm depending on your model).
Adjustment and Setup
The SID Select+ provides adjustability through air pressure, rebound, and compression settings. These allow riders to tune fork behavior based on terrain and riding style.
Air pressure should be set based on rider weight. Consult the RockShox tuning chart for exact values. Adjust the rebound by turning the red dial at the fork leg’s bottom. Slower rebound offers more control on technical terrain, while faster rebound improves responsiveness.
Compression damping is controlled via a blue knob at the top of the damper leg. This allows on-the-fly adjustment between open and lockout modes. For XC racing, use the lockout on climbs or smooth trails, and open the compression for descents or technical sections.
Maintenance Schedule and Best Practices
Regular maintenance of the SID Select+ is essential to maintain smooth performance and long-term durability. RockShox recommends the following intervals:
- Every 50 hours: Clean and inspect stanchions and dust seals. Replace wiper seals if needed.
- Every 100 hours: Perform a lower leg service. Drain and replace bath oil, clean foam rings, and inspect for bushing wear.
- Annually or every 200 hours: Perform a full damper and air spring service. This involves disassembling the damper for oil replacement and inspecting internal seals.
Always use manufacturer-specified suspension fluids and tools. Keeping the stanchions clean and lubricated will prevent wear and extend service intervals.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Improper setup can lead to performance degradation or mechanical problems. Here are common SID Select+ issues and their solutions:
1. Excessive fork dive
Likely caused by too little air pressure or insufficient compression damping. Increase pressure and add low-speed compression if available.
2. Harsh bottoming out
Check sag and air pressure. If within range, consider adding bottomless tokens to increase progression.
3. Poor small-bump compliance
This may indicate overinflated air spring or dry foam rings. Reduce pressure slightly and inspect for adequate lubrication.
4. Lockout not engaging
Check cable or remote lever tension (if using remote lockout). Internally, the damper may need servicing if the issue persists.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain and Frame Components
The SID Select+ is optimized for Boost-spaced hubs (15x110mm) and fits tapered headtubes (1.5″ to 1-1/8″). It uses a post-mount disc brake interface, compatible with 160mm rotors without adapters and up to 180mm with adapters.
It pairs well with modern XC drivetrain setups, especially 1×12 groups like SRAM Eagle or Shimano Deore XT/SLX. Ensure the axle standard matches your hub before purchasing.
Clearance is designed around 29” wheels with up to 2.4” tires, though some 27.5”+ wheels may also fit.
Customization and Performance Optimization
The SID Select+ offers several customization opportunities to enhance ride performance. Riders can fine-tune spring progression using RockShox Bottomless Tokens. Adding tokens increases the ramp-up at the end of the travel, ideal for aggressive XC or light trail use.
For further tuning, advanced users may consider upgrading the damper fluid viscosity to adjust compression characteristics subtly. However, this should only be done by experienced mechanics or at an authorized service center.
The fork also supports RockShox’s TwistLoc or OneLoc remote lockout levers, allowing seamless cockpit integration and on-the-fly control.
Comparison with Similar Models
When compared to the SID Ultimate, the SID Select+ offers nearly identical structural performance but lacks the Ultimate’s lighter damper materials and extra adjustability. For most riders, the Select+ strikes a balance between performance and cost-efficiency.
Compared to the Fox 32 Step-Cast Performance, the SID Select+ generally feels more supple off the top and has a stiffer chassis, although the Fox may offer a broader tuning range in certain configurations.
If weight is the top priority, SID Ultimate may still be the better choice. But for those wanting consistent, race-capable suspension at a slightly lower price, the Select+ is a strong contender.
Final Verdict: Is SID Select+ Worth It?
For riders upgrading from a lower-tier fork or even previous-generation XC forks, the SID Select+ offers a substantial improvement in stiffness, responsiveness, and adjustability. Its performance is nearly on par with the SID Ultimate but comes at a more accessible price.
The fork’s broad compatibility, race-ready tuning, and dependable damping platform make it a solid investment for XC racers and trail riders looking to gain a competitive edge without overextending their budget.
Whether you’re racing or pushing the limits on technical climbs and descents, the SID Select+ proves to be a worthy upgrade in most modern XC setups.