Favoritebikes Help Center

StormX Suspension Fork (TRAMA) — Care, Adjustment & Maintenance Guide

About Your Suspension Fork

Your FavoriteBikes StormX comes equipped with a TRAMA suspension fork. This guide covers daily care, adjustment settings, and maintenance schedules to keep your fork performing at its best.

⚠️ Safety Warnings

  • Inspect your fork before every ride — check the crown, inner legs, outer legs, dropout, and brake arch for cracks, bending, leaking, or damage.
  • Do not ride if any parts are damaged — bent, cracked, or leaking forks are unsafe.
  • Never remove the steerer tube or stanchions from the crown — they are precision press-fit at the factory. Removing them will permanently damage the fork.
  • Do not add threads to a threadless steerer tube — this weakens the tube and creates an unsafe condition.
  • Do not modify the fork without consulting a qualified bicycle mechanic.

Break-In Period

Your fork needs approximately 20 hours of riding time to break in. During this period, the fork may feel slightly tight or notchy. After break-in, it will feel significantly smoother and more responsive.


Adjustments

Preload Adjustment (Spring Tension)

Adjust the preload to match your weight for optimal performance:

  • Turn clockwise → stiffer spring (for heavier riders)
  • Turn counter-clockwise → softer spring (for lighter riders)

Lock-Out

Lock-out stiffens the fork for flat roads and uphill riding to save energy.

  • Lever lock-out: Use the handlebar-mounted lever to lock/unlock
  • Gradual adjustment: Some models allow you to adjust compression from fast to slow, all the way to full lock-out
  • Safety feature: If the fork encounters a heavy impact while locked out, it will automatically release and return to lock-out afterward

💡 Tip: If the lock-out knob won't turn, lightly compress the fork first, then try again.

Lock-out lever - unlock/lock positionsLock-out knobQuick lock-out knob

Rebound Adjustment

Controls how fast the fork returns to its extended position after being compressed:

  • Turn clockwise → slower rebound
  • Turn counter-clockwise → faster rebound

Adjust to your preference — slower rebound provides more control on rough terrain.

Rebound adjustment - turn for slow or fast rebound


Maintenance Schedule

Before Every Ride

  • Ensure quick release skewers are properly tightened
  • Wipe the inner legs clean and inspect the entire fork for damage
  • Check headset for proper adjustment
  • Verify front brake cable routing and adjustment
  • Check top caps, brake posts, and shaft bolt torque

Every Week (or 8–10 hours of riding)

  • Check top caps, brake posts, and shaft bolt for proper torque
  • Apply a light amount of grease to the wiper seals and stanchions

Every 4 Weeks (or 25–30 hours of riding)

  • Disassemble fork and thoroughly clean all grease and residue
  • Inspect all parts for cracks, abrasions, and wear — replace damaged parts immediately
  • Apply liberal grease to upper/lower bushings, stanchions, valve assembly, and wipers
  • Fill the wiper pocket generously with grease
  • Do not use lithium-based grease — it may damage the bushing material

Full Service Intervals

Riding Style Service Interval
Short, occasional rides Every 6 months
Long, frequent rides Every 4 months
Short rides, severe conditions Every 4 months
Long rides, severe conditions Every 3 months

Bushing Replacement

If you notice excessive play between the stanchion and outer leg, the bushings may need replacement. This requires special tools and should only be done by a qualified mechanic. Contact FavoriteBikes Support for assistance.

Warranty

The TRAMA fork is covered under a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover:

  • Damage from crashes, collisions, or misuse
  • Improper installation or maintenance
  • Paint damage
  • Use in stunt riding, ramp jumping, or similar activities

Need Help?

If you have questions about your suspension fork or need service, contact FavoriteBikes Support.