JARGON

BOTTOM-OUT

The behaviour of a fork as it goes through the last part of its travel. Normally controlled by the design of the air spring or a supplementary end-stroke damper.

IFP

Internal Floating Piston. This separates two sections of the damper to alter flow/compression rates or counteract heat expansion. Its movement is controlled by an air or metal spring.

OFFSET

The horizontal distance between the centre line of the fork’s steerer tube and its stanchions. This is determined by the design of the crown. Larger o sets create a faster turning feel.

SHIM

A spring-loaded valve that flexes during highpressure oil flow to enable a damper to move faster.

STANCHIONS

The upper tubes that are fixed into the fork crown and which the lower legs slide up and down on. Diameters vary from 28mm to 40mm. As a general rule, fatter stanchions make for a sti er fork.

STICTION

Resistance to movement in the fork. Generally caused by initially sticky seals or bushings that lubricate and ease up once the fork starts moving.