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.
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.
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.