I have an aluminium frame and fork that I want to swap for a steel frame for more comfort. I’ve found a really nice one that’s affordable.
My main concern is that, although my head tube takes a straight steerer tube fork, it is quite large and looks similar to tapered head tube.
If I fit a crown race on the new steel fork, would it end up being too skinny from the base of the crown race or leaving a gap? Could dirt or mud get into the head tube and bearings and cause problems later on?
I’ve seen another fork that has a lip which would probably match the size of the head tube better, but I just don’t like the look of it.
Pic 1-2: Fork I like
Pic 3-4: My headtub and fork
Pic 5-6: second option
Not sure if I explained this correctly, sorry English is not my first language. Appreciate any suggestions 🙏
by RevolutionaryBrush56
5 Comments
You definitely need a fork with large enough diameter crown to fully support the crown race, especially with many headsets now using split crown races.
Why not get a carbon fork?
If you did get it to work I would be worried about dissimilar metal induced corrosion. Any moisture or high humidity and that is likely to happen.
How expensive is the steel fork?
Because Rodeo Labs “spork” fork is quite comfy and support 3 bolts racks. Available in tapered forks and straight steerer…
I’m rocking a surly cross check fork on my old aluminum cx frame , works just fine .
Don’t replace your fork. It will be difficult to the match the aesthetics and the handling of you current bike.
A cheap low quality steel fork will not be better then what is your bike now!
I agree with others that a carbon fork would be the only reasonable upgrade, but also that is not guaranteed.
If you want more comfort, a more flexible carbon seatpost could be an option.