The RockShox SID Ultimate 3P represents the pinnacle of XC fork technology, designed for elite-level performance with exceptional tunability and weight savings. This guide explores everything from installation and setup to compatibility and performance comparisons—helping you determine whether the SID Ultimate 3P is a worthy upgrade for your ride.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link] with appropriate bits
- Crown race setter
- Shock pump
- Allen keys [paid link] (4mm, 5mm, 6mm)
- Caliper for measuring travel
- Suspension grease and fork-specific oil
- Cable cutters and zip ties (for remote lockout routing)
- Star nut installation tool or compression plug (depending on headset system)
Installation of the SID Ultimate 3P Fork
Installing the SID Ultimate 3P requires precision and correct alignment to ensure optimal performance. Begin by preparing your frame’s head tube, ensuring it’s clean and properly faced. Install the crown race onto the fork’s steerer tube, followed by sizing and cutting the steerer to match your bike’s stack height.
Slide the fork into the head tube, inserting spacers and stem before tightening the top cap to preload the headset bearings. Secure the stem bolts to spec. Ensure the fork is centered before final tightening.
Next, route the remote lockout cable housing cleanly along the frame, securing it with zip ties. Attach the remote to the handlebars and calibrate cable tension to enable precise actuation of the 3-position damper: Open, Pedal, and Lock.
Adjustment and Setup for Optimal Performance
The SID Ultimate 3P allows riders to fine-tune their suspension using air pressure and the Charger Race Day 2 damper settings. Set the sag between 20–25% by adjusting air pressure via the positive air spring valve. RockShox includes a chart on the fork leg for initial pressure guidance.
The 3P remote controls compression settings:
- Open: Maximum plushness for descending and rough terrain.
- Pedal: Medium compression for mixed trails and climbs.
- Lock: Firm setting for sprinting and paved surfaces.
Use the rebound adjuster at the bottom of the fork leg to dial in recovery speed. Start at the midpoint and adjust based on trail feedback. Fast rebound favors technical descents; slower rebound supports better control on flat trails.
Routine Maintenance and Servicing
To maintain peak performance, conduct lower leg service every 50 hours. This includes cleaning stanchions, replacing foam rings, and applying fresh oil to the bath. Full damper and air spring service should occur at 100–200 hour intervals, depending on riding conditions.
Use only RockShox-recommended lubricants and follow precise torque specs to avoid premature wear or seal damage. Always inspect seals, bushings, and stanchions for wear signs or contamination.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Common issues with the SID Ultimate 3P stem from improper cable tension or incorrect air spring setup. If the fork does not switch cleanly between compression modes, adjust the cable tension at the remote barrel adjuster.
Another frequent concern is harshness at the beginning of travel, typically caused by inadequate sag or over-pressurizing the air spring. Reducing pressure slightly and rechecking sag helps alleviate this.
Excessive rebound noise can signal insufficient rebound damping. Adjust the red rebound knob incrementally until performance smooths out. If lockout feels spongy, it may indicate air contamination or oil migration in the damper—warranting a damper service.
Customization and Performance Optimization
To tailor the SID Ultimate 3P for specific terrain, riders can install volume spacers to adjust air spring progression. Adding spacers increases bottom-out resistance, making the fork more supportive on big hits.
Race-oriented riders often fine-tune rebound speed to favor quick trail feedback. Meanwhile, endurance cyclists may prioritize compliance by reducing volume spacers and softening compression settings.
Switching to lightweight thru-axles and integrating carbon crowns or steerer tubes can further drop weight, though these modifications should be balanced with stiffness requirements.
Compatibility With Drivetrain and Frame Standards
The SID Ultimate 3P is designed for Boost-spaced front hubs (110x15mm) and uses a post-mount disc brake interface compatible with 160mm to 180mm rotors. Its tapered steerer tube fits modern frames, while the 44mm or 51mm offset options align with various geometry preferences.
Remote lockout compatibility extends across SRAM and RockShox controls, including TwistLoc and OneLoc. The fork’s short axle-to-crown measurement suits modern XC frames but may limit compatibility with aggressive trail geometries requiring more travel.
Ensure the crown clearance accommodates your tire size—up to 2.4″ for most configurations. Check rotor-to-arch clearance when using thicker rotors or oversized tires.
Comparison With Similar Models
When compared to the RockShox SID Select or Fox 34 SC Factory, the SID Ultimate 3P offers lighter weight and quicker lockout response. The Charger Race Day 2 damper surpasses the older Charger RL in tuning range and consistency during long descents.
Versus the Fox 32 Step-Cast, the SID Ultimate 3P provides a stiffer chassis and better small bump compliance, though the Fox 32 slightly edges out in damping heat management over marathon durations.
For riders demanding the best blend of efficiency and weight savings, the SID Ultimate 3P presents a top-tier option, especially in competitive XC scenarios.
FAQs
1. Can I install the SID Ultimate 3P on a trail bike?
While technically possible, the SID Ultimate 3P is optimized for cross-country use. It may not offer sufficient stiffness or travel for aggressive trail riding.
2. What is the maximum rotor size compatible with this fork?
The fork accepts rotors up to 180mm with a direct post-mount adapter. Larger rotors may void the warranty or require specialized mounting hardware.
3. How often should I service the fork?
Routine lower leg service should occur every 50 hours. Full damper and air spring servicing is recommended every 100–200 hours.
4. Can I use TwistLoc remote with this fork?
Yes, the SID Ultimate 3P is fully compatible with TwistLoc and other SRAM remotes designed for 3-position damper systems.
5. What’s the difference between SID Ultimate and SID Select+?
The SID Ultimate features lighter materials and the top-tier Charger Race Day 2 damper, while the Select+ uses slightly heavier components and the older Charger RL damper.
6. Does it work with 27.5” wheels?
The SID Ultimate 3P is primarily designed for 29” wheels. Some models may fit 27.5” with specific frame geometry, but clearance should be verified.
Conclusion
The RockShox SID Ultimate 3P is an elite-level cross-country fork offering unmatched performance in weight, tunability, and terrain adaptability. While it demands careful setup and maintenance, its three-position damper, responsive chassis, and lightweight design make it a formidable upgrade for serious XC racers and performance-focused riders. If your priority is speed and efficiency without compromising control, the SID Ultimate 3P proves well worth the investment.