What Makes the Selva R a Top Pick for Mountain Bikers

The Selva R from Formula is a standout in the world of mountain biking forks, known for its versatility, performance, and durability. Designed for serious riders who demand top-tier performance, the Selva R delivers exceptional handling, precise control, and remarkable stiffness. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Selva R, including its installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and how it compares to other forks in the market.

Installation of the Selva R

Installing the Selva R fork correctly is crucial to ensure that your mountain bike performs optimally. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the Selva R:

Tools Required:

5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
6mm Allen wrench [paid link]
Torque wrench [paid link]
Isopropyl alcohol or degreaser
15mm fork through-axle tool
Bike stand [paid link] (optional but recommended)

Installation Steps:

Prepare the Bike: Place your bike on a stable work stand. Remove the front wheel and brake caliper if needed.
Remove the Old Fork: Using a 5mm Allen wrench, remove the bolts securing the stem to the steerer tube of the old fork. Next, remove the top cap and the headset bearings.
Insert the Selva R Fork: Align the Selva R fork’s steerer tube with the headset. Ensure that the fork is properly positioned in the head tube.
Install the Stem and Headset: Reinstall the headset bearings, top cap, and stem. Tighten the stem bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications using the 5mm Allen wrench.
Set the Axle: Install the through-axle by inserting it into the fork dropouts. Tighten using a 15mm through-axle tool.
Final Check: Double-check that everything is secure, including headset preload and the torque of the stem bolts. Ensure the fork moves smoothly and that there is no play in the headset.

Adjustment of the Selva R Fork

Proper adjustment of the Selva R fork is essential for comfort, performance, and safety. The Selva R is equipped with advanced features like the “F1” cartridge and adjustable compression and rebound settings. Here’s how to get the most out of these adjustments:

Adjusting the Rebound:

Rebound Adjustment Dial: Located on the bottom of the right fork leg, the rebound dial controls how quickly the fork returns to its original position after compressing.
Clockwise Rotation: Slows the rebound, making it ideal for rougher terrain.
Counterclockwise Rotation: Speeds up the rebound, offering faster recovery on smoother trails.
Begin with the rebound dial set to mid-position, and fine-tune it based on your ride preferences.

Adjusting Compression:

Compression Dial: The compression dial on the Selva R fork adjusts the fork’s response to bumps and impacts. It controls how the fork behaves under force.
Open Setting: For a softer, more plush ride with more sensitivity.
Firm Setting: For a more responsive and controlled ride, particularly for technical descents and climbs.
Adjust the compression setting by rotating the dial clockwise for firmer settings and counterclockwise for softer settings.

Air Spring Pressure Adjustment:

The Selva R uses an air spring that can be adjusted to suit your weight and riding style.
Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the fork’s air chamber.
Recommended air pressure varies by rider weight and riding style; typically, lighter riders will need less air pressure, while heavier riders will require more.

Maintenance of the Selva R Fork

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of the Selva R. Regular servicing is essential, particularly if you ride frequently in muddy or wet conditions.

Cleaning and Lubing:

After each ride, wipe down the fork with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Use isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated degreaser to clean the stanchions (the upper parts of the fork).
Apply a small amount of fork oil or lubricant to the stanchions to prevent them from drying out.

Servicing the Air Spring:

To maintain optimal air spring performance, periodically check the air pressure and adjust it based on your weight and riding style.
Perform a full air spring service every 50 to 100 hours of riding or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Lubing the Dust Seals:

The dust seals on the Selva R fork should be lubricated regularly to prevent dirt and water from entering the fork.
Remove the fork from the bike, compress the fork fully, and apply grease or a suspension-specific lubricant to the seals.

Annual Fork Service:

Every year, perform a full fork service, including cleaning the damper, replacing seals, and inspecting for wear and damage.
If you’re not comfortable performing this service yourself, it’s best to have a professional mechanic handle the job.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Noisy Forks:

Cause: Noise may come from debris caught between the stanchions and the seals or insufficient lubrication.
Solution: Clean the stanchions and lubricate the seals to reduce friction and noise.

Fork Sticking or Not Compressing:

Cause: This may be due to an air spring issue, low oil levels, or internal seal wear.
Solution: Check the air pressure and refill the oil if necessary. If the issue persists, a full service may be needed to inspect internal components.

Spongy Feel or Lack of Response:

Cause: This often occurs when the compression damping is set too low or the fork hasn’t been maintained properly.
Solution: Adjust the compression dial to a firmer setting and check the fork oil levels.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

While the Selva R fork is already a high-performance component, there are several ways you can fine-tune it for your specific needs. Customizing your fork’s settings can significantly improve handling and comfort.

Spring Rate Adjustment:

Riders can adjust the air pressure to match their weight. For those who ride aggressively, higher air pressure can provide a stiffer ride, while lighter riders may benefit from lower air pressure for more plushness.

Fine-Tuning Rebound and Compression:

As mentioned earlier, the Selva R fork allows for both compression and rebound adjustments. Experimenting with these settings on various trails can help you find the perfect balance between comfort and control.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Selva R with similar forks from other brands, it’s important to consider its unique features and performance benefits:

Selva R vs. RockShox Pike:

Performance: Both forks offer excellent performance, but the Selva R is often praised for its more responsive and customizable compression settings, allowing for better fine-tuning.
Weight: The Selva R tends to be lighter than the RockShox Pike, which makes it an excellent choice for riders looking to shave off grams without sacrificing performance.
Price: The Selva R is typically priced higher than the Pike, but for riders seeking precision and a premium feel, the additional investment is often worthwhile.

Selva R vs. Fox 36:

Precision: The Fox 36 is renowned for its performance, but the Selva R is known for being more adjustable in terms of damping and air spring settings. The Fox 36 offers excellent performance right out of the box but may require additional tuning to match the Selva R’s versatility.
Durability: Both forks are built to last, but Formula’s Selva R stands out in muddy or extreme conditions due to its tight seal designs and reduced maintenance needs.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Selva R fork is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of mountain bike components. However, it is essential to understand its compatibility with your bike’s other components.

Headset Compatibility: The Selva R fork uses a standard steerer tube that is compatible with most modern headsets.
Axle Compatibility: The fork uses a 15mm or 20mm through-axle, so ensure your frame is equipped with the correct dropout type.
Brake Mount Compatibility: The Selva R fork is compatible with both 160mm and 180mm disc brakes, but be sure to check your frame’s brake mount compatibility before installation.

By understanding these compatibility factors, you can ensure that the Selva R works optimally with your mountain bike drivetrain.