We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Automotive

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Motorcycle Fork?

Dan Cavallari
By
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 7,743
Share

A motorcycle fork is a component that connects the front wheel of the bike to the frame of the motorcycle. It is used as part of the steering mechanism that allows the user to turn the front wheel, and in most cases it is used as a shock absorption system. Modern versions of the motorcycle fork work on a hydraulic system, though some older systems use coil springs to absorb shock. The motorcycle fork plays an important role in the stability of the motorcycle, especially during braking, when the weight of the motorcycle and rider is likely to dive forward, increasing the risk of a loss of control.

Hydraulic versions of the motorcycle fork use a viscous fluid contained in long cylinders to absorb shock. The fluid can move through chambers within the fork, and depending on the size of the openings within the fork, the rate at which the fork compresses and rebounds can be changed. The two legs of the fork are likely to contain such a system, though some forks use an air system in one leg and an oil system in another. The combined systems allow for adjustability and stability while riding. When the components of the fork are contained within the tubing, the system is known as a telescopic motorcycle fork. These forks are used most commonly on just about all styles of motorcycles.

A springer fork is another popular type of motorcycle fork, though its design is fairly antiquated. A springer fork's legs do not contain any suspension components. Instead, a coil spring is mounted externally, and the fork legs move independently when an impact occurs. The spring absorbs the shock and pushes to return the fork legs to the original position. Springer forks are also known as leading link forks, since a linkage system of more than one bar is used to absorb shock.

The rake of the fork, or the angle at which the fork sweeps away from the frame toward the front wheel, can have a significant impact on the motorcycle's handling. A long rake that increases the angle at which the fork sweeps away from the frame can make steering more difficult; long rakes are usually reserved for chopper bikes that are meant more for show. Tighter rakes translate into tighter steering, and racing bikes usually feature very tight rakes. Motocross bikes will feature a rake somewhere in between, as steering and maximum shock absorption are important during motocross racing.

Share
WikiMotors is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wikimotors.org/what-is-a-motorcycle-fork.htm
Copy this link
WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.