Can You put Suspension Forks on a BMX?

Suspension forks are a great way to add more stability and control to your BMX bike. They can make a big difference when it comes to speed and braking. But can you put suspension forks on a BMX? It is a complicated question. In short, yes, but it depends on the type of bike. 

Suspension forks are designed for BMX bikes and offer a smoother ride, frequent stability, and better safety than traditional forks. The traction of the fork is perfect when the bike moves smoothly.

The problem is that BMX bikes need to be fast, cleaner, and safer. For this reason, they are built to handle a lot of speed and control. Suspension forks are not suitable for BMX bikes as they are heavy and interfere with the balance point of the bike. But, BMX bikes are essentially the same as road bikes. They vary only slightly in their used materials. So it is possible to fit suspension forks on a BMX bike. Keep reading for more information about how this decision will affect your biking experience!

What Are Suspension Forks?

Suspension forks are commonly found on bicycles, motorcycles and specialized racing machines. Suspension forks increase comfort, stability, and control over bumpy terrain without sacrificing too much performance when going uphill or on smooth trails. The bike can then be the title at any angle to propel the rider, and the suspension fork maintains this position throughout. 

They also tend to be linear-type forks rather than parallelogram-type for making turns, which allows for more precise handling. Suspension forks are typically made of steel or aluminum, and their internal components are usually arranged symmetrically on both sides of the tire.

The earliest known suspension application on bicycles was from the 1890s on bicycles designed for off-road riding. It was not until the 1960s that it became widely applied to mountain bikes, developed in the 1970s. By the 1980s and 1990s, suspension forks were being used on almost all mountain bikes. These are specially designed for the rigorous demands of mountain biking and use a variety of advanced suspension mechanisms.

Their popularity continued to grow through the 2000s, partly due to their use in downhill racing. However, by the 2010s, some manufacturers had begun to focus on simpler forks that trade performance. Modern forks also feature other high-end technologies, such as tapered steerers and internal gear hubs, to improve their performance.

Why Do BMX Bikes Not Have Suspension?

There are hundreds of various bike types, but the crux of BMX biking is always going huge. When it comes to balancing speed with control, BMX bikes have no choice but to be heavy, making them an instant favorite for most riders, with their responsiveness and sleek design make for a pretty impressive ride. 

When you ride without the help of suspension, you need to be able to rely on your skills. You need to react quickly, and you need to have your bike well-tuned. It is what makes BMX such a fun hobby. But why don’t BMX bikes have suspension?

The first reason BMX bikes don’t have suspension is unnecessary. BMX bikers rely on their ability to quickly gauge the terrain they will be riding on and get the best feel out of their bike. If a rider needs help with going over bumps and curbs, it isn’t very BMX-like.

Another reason why BMX bikes don’t have suspension is that they can be dangerous. Bikes with too much suspension to spare can easily lose their balance over bumps and curbs. While this may prevent you from getting hurt on smaller obstacles, you still face danger in the long run. The bike might lose its stability and fall by itself, even if you don’t make sudden movements. 

Can You Put Suspension Forks on A BMX?

BMX bikes have a front fork suspension system, but it can be different in how it is usually utilized. Front forks on BMX bikes are often equipped with rigid forks designed to absorb some of the vibrations from the ground due to pedaling, braking, and speed variations. Usually, the forks on a BMX bike will be made with high-tensile steel.

Most suspension forks are usually aluminum alloy that possesses qualities favored by most riders who enjoy using their bike for dirt jumping or mountain biking. If a rider wants to have more control over their bike with improved control, they might consider adding a new fork to the bike.

What Is the Difference Between the Rigid Fork and A Suspension Fork?

A rigid fork will be high-tensile steel, typically less controlled when riding over bumps and rocks. As a result, a person who rides over uneven terrain would have to fight their bike in ways that they do not like. 

It is also possible for the rider to have less control, which means they can hit their knees or bottom. Using a suspension fork on your bike can offer you much better control over your bike when traveling through rough ups and downs. The other advantage is that it will allow quick stops to avoid obstacles.

There are many different types of suspension forks on the market, and they vary in price. Some of the newer designs have adjustable compression dampers, which help reduce bottoming out when using your bike for jumps.

If you want to control your bike more when going around rocks and bumps, you might consider using a suspension fork on your BMX bike. You will find suspension forks made of aluminum alloy lighter than steel but still offers good durability and high-tensile strength.

What are the issues that are caused by BMX suspension forks?

There are benefits and drawbacks to every bike component, including the suspension fork, as with any sport. For BMX racing specifically, a fork can be an important decision based on weight, stability, and control factors.

The current industry trend is for lighter forks which generally provide more forgiveness for those learning how to ride the track. On the other hand, some riders can find that these forks might not control their bike when performing tricks or aerial maneuvers. Riders who prefer a stiffer feel in their bikes might be drawn towards a heavier fork, providing more stability and control around sharp turns on difficult tracks.

The fork is used to suspend your bike from the ground. This suspension system makes it easier to do tricks and slide across different surfaces. Suspension forks also help protect your front wheel by absorbing the shock that can occur during a fall or crash. The two main issues that are caused by BMX suspension forks are:

1. Creaking 

Creaking is the noise that occurs when too much pressure builds up in a bearing because of an inadequate seal between the upper and lower fork; Wear on metal particles occurs due to rusting or corrosion induced by moisture, grime and oil on bearing blades.

Creaking is a noise that occurs in a front suspension fork when too much pressure builds up within its bearing because of inadequate lubrication or poor maintenance. The excessive force puts creaking pressure on the fork’s ball bearings and bushings which then causes the noise. 

It is usually caused when riding on dirty tracks, riding over bumpy terrain, or other external forces exerted on the fork.

2. Rusting or corrosion

Due to moisture or any dirt and grease build-up, rusting or corrosion occurs to metal parts. The metal particles collect on the bearing blades, leading to wear and tear on metal parts. It can be avoided by keeping your bike well-lubricated; washing your bike after every ride.

How can a BMX rider avoid them?

As a BMX racer or casual rider, you will not want to deal with these issues. To avoid these problems, you can: 

• Ensure that you keep your bike well-lubricated after every ride by wiping off any dirt and debris from the fork’s moving parts. 
• Wash your bike completely after every ride and make sure that your fork is completely dry before riding; no moisture gets into the bearings and maintains the fork’s smooth operation for optimal performance. 
• Ensure that your bike is properly maintained by checking for any signs of corrosion before each ride. 
• Check for loose bearings and replace them if needed.

What Should They Do If They Encounter One? 

If they experience a noise while riding, they should keep listening and not ride it until it stops. If this continues to need to bring it back to the store where they bought it and fix it. It will not cause too much of a delay in the race.

The suspension fork comes in multiple configurations, like a straight rod that slides up inside the wheel, consisting of two pieces of aluminum or steel connected with a ball bearing or roller bearings. This type of fork is called a side-pull suspension. 

There is also a BMX suspension fork called a telescopic fork which locates the wheel at the top of its tubes with a pivotal bearing and two pivots. It is fixed to the steering tube and pivots about two axles set inside the fork’s tubes. The upper end of the tube has an integral stem containing a thread for attaching your handlebars, brake levers, and grips; it also has an integrated axle surrounding your wheel axles.

A compact suspension fork has the same features as a telescopic fork, but it is composed of one piece and only has one pivot. This fork works very similarly to a regular suspension fork, but the only difference is that it does not have an integrated stem for your handlebars, grips, and levers.

How can you install a suspension fork on a bike?

There are a few ways to install a suspension fork on your bike. A suspension fork is used on more demanding trails and places where the ground has a lot of ruts or rocks. It makes the ride much smoother and more comfortable. If you’re setting up your bike for the first time, it’s important to follow these directions before riding off into uncharted territory carefully. Here’s how to install a suspension fork on your bike:

Step 1: Purchase the correct size fork for your bike. 

The fork will depend on the size of the bike and the intended trail. If you have a road or urban bike, purchase a smaller fork that fits your bike. If you have a mountain bike, you’ll need to purchase a larger fork for your bike’s wheel size. 

Step 2: Remove the old fork from your bike. 

Forks should come with a bolt and wrench to remove them. Once you’ve removed it, use a hacksaw to cut off the head of the screw that holds the fork in place on your frame. You’ll have to do this on most bikes due to the design of forks today, but if it’s not possible for you, buy a new replacement lock-on headset that attaches directly between your handlebars and stem. Make sure to call ahead of time and ask about removal fees before buying a new fork.

Step 3: Install the fork onto your bike. 

Ensure that the fork is correctly aligned with the frame and that you have a bike stand to hold it up while doing this. Once the fork is bolted in place, ensure that you have the right amount of slack (not too tight and not too loose) on your stem to parallel your stem and handlebars.

Step 4: Install your headset and brakes.

If using a threaded headset, attach it to your stem with a bolt or a set screw. If you’re using a lock-on type headset, connect the two pieces of hardware by threading them through both pieces. If you’re using an exposed threaded headset, you already have everything mounted on your bike.

Step 5: Tension your fork and headset in the right spots. 

The amount of tension will vary on your specific bike, so check the instructions with your suspension fork. If you’re unsure, ask a professional to do it for you.

Step 6: Mount your handlebars and seat to your fork. 

Your handlebars should have a mounting point underneath the stem, and the seat should have a locking mechanism that attaches it between the top tube and seat tube on your frame. If you’re using a front shock or rear shock, these should also lock securely with hardware provided by a local bike shop or online retailer.

Are There BMX Bikes with Suspension?

You want to start BMXing, but you’re not sure if any BMX bikes have suspension. Luckily for you, there are plenty of BMX bikes with suspension. They’re not very common in the industry, but it’s interesting to note that they’re becoming increasingly popular among people interested in BMX biking.

You’ll notice that these different styles of BMX bikes all have a common feature: they generally use either struts or shocks to absorb the shocks of bumps in a BMX bike’s path. The biggest benefit of this is that rides can be much more comfortable, especially for those who want to ride with less reliance on riding techniques. Here are some of the most popular choices in BMX bikes with suspension:

1. Canyon’s Stout Hardtail Suspension Bike

The Canyon’s Stout Hardtail is a great choice for those looking to get into BMX biking and those already experienced in it. This bike features a RockShox suspension fork and a rigid alloy frame, an excellent balance of cost and weight savings. If you’re looking for a reliable, competitively priced BMX bike with ample power, this is it. This bike is great for riders who have a good balance of power and stability. The frame features hydroformed tubing, which increases its rigidity and strength, but your movements must still be highly controlled to ensure you don’t lose control at high speeds. In addition, it has a wide handlebar to provide extra leverage when turning.

2. Kink’s G3 Suspension Bike

The Kink’s G3 is another excellent choice for BMXers who want to experience more control while riding. This bike features a suspension fork controlled by a remote-action lever and an internal rear shock. It reduces the overall weight of the bike without sacrificing too much power. The bike also has a tapered headtube, which is an excellent way for riders to get a little extra control over their turning. It makes it easier for riders to lean into their turns and ensure they’re in the right position for maximum speed and acceleration. The bike is great for riders who want to push themselves by adjusting their riding style to improve their racing times.

3. XC Series Suspension Bike

The XC Series suspension bike from Cannondale is a great choice for experienced BMXers who want to ride with less weight and more control. This bike has a 24-inch alloy frame and hydraulic disc brakes. It also features the SR Suntour suspension fork, which has a remote-action lever to customize your ride. The base unit of this fork is Shimano’s M591, which means that you get to upgrade it when necessary. It is an excellent bike for riders who want to apply their skill to improve their times while racing on the track or in the park.

4. Other Suspension Bikes

If you prefer a bike that doesn’t use suspension but can still provide you with the comfort features mentioned above, other options are available. The Gator Trax is an excellent option for BMXers who want to experience faster speeds and more control. This BMX bike has a rigid frame, alloy hubs, and a lightweight aluminum crankset. The frame also has welded-in cable guides and extra-wide handlebars, which help you maintain good leverage while turning. It is a great option for experienced BMXers who want to increase their top speed.

Another alternative would be the Bonka BMX bike. It is an excellent option for people who don’t feel comfortable riding with suspension but still want the power and control associated with rigid frames. It has an alloy frame that makes it lightweight, grip shifters that are adjustable to suit your riding style, large wide handlebars, and a very strong chain guard. It is an excellent bike for new BMX riders and those who want to increase their acceleration.

Conclusion

Suspension bikes are generally more expensive than their rigid counterparts. However, a few budget models on the market provide you with excellent performance for the money you’re spending. Ideally, the suspension is controlled by a remote-action lever, which means that you can adjust it when necessary to ensure you’re riding at your fastest possible speed.

So, BMX biking with a suspension bike is an excellent way to experience the sensation of riding a bicycle, which will ultimately be your means of transportation and an enjoyable pastime.

FAQs

• Are BMX bikes Good for hills?

There is no universal answer to this. Some people like to ride DH bikes with suspension on hilly terrain and others choose BMX bikes for simplicity. The key is for the rider to know what they are capable of and which bike will work best for their intended riding style.

• What makes a BMX bike good?

The most important thing about selecting a BMX bike is your riding style. A freestyle rider will prefer a hardtail, flat bar BMX bike, while a dirt jumper will go with a full-suspension bike. Another important factor is the type of terrain you want to ride on and your skill level. 

• Do all suspension forks fit all bikes?

No, suspension forks are usually only compatible with bikes that the fork was designed for. A good rule of thumb would be to check the frame and fork for compatibility, especially if you have a very old bike. Newer bikes will come equipped with forks that are compatible and these should not need any adapter or converter to be used on your bicycle.

• Will a 27.5 fork fit a 29-wheel?

It depends on if the 27.5 has a disc brake mount, which they almost always do. If it does, it will work with a 29-wheel, but if not, you will need an adapter such as a bash guard.

• What does increased fork offset do?

This is the distance from the center of the hub axle to the top of the dropouts. Your frame is usually a standard size, so it should have an offset of around 100mm. It will ensure that you can fit a standard mountain bike wheel on your BMX bike and any other type of wheel.