The cycling world is rapidly changing, and one of the biggest advances in the last few years is the introduction of the new tapered fork. While tapered forks are nothing new in the industry—many modern mountain bikes now feature them—their presence in road and commuter cycles has been growing as of late. For cyclists looking to get the most out of their ride, understanding what sets a tapered fork apart from a traditional non-tapered fork can make a big difference in the overall performance and comfort of the ride.
A fork is the part of a bicycle frame that connects the front wheel to the head tube. As the name suggests, tapered forks are wider at the base and taper as they go up. In contrast, non-tapered forks remain the same width all the way up, and typically have a circular shape.
The tapered fork design is relatively new but has been gaining widespread acceptance in the cycling industry due to its advantage over non-tapered designs. One of the major advantages of tapered forks is improved stiffness. Tapered forks provide greater torsional resistance when force is applied, creating a stiffer ride overall. This makes the ride steadier and allows for greater control on winding roads and off-road terrain. Additionally, the greater torsional resistance also reduces the chances of an accidental wheel failure, such as when striking a pothole or a curb.
The design of the tapered fork also offers superior brake performance, as the structural integrity is improved. The wider base of the tapered fork grounds your brakes more effectively and helps absorb any wobble that can cause brakes to slip, allowing for better speed control and modulation.
The tapered design also offers improved road isolation, with less shock transfer. The structure of the fork offers more “give” than a non-tapered design, reducing jarring over bumps and rough road surfaces. This improved ride comfort can be especially beneficial for long distance rides, where comfort is key.
Weight is also a factor, with tapered forks weighing in at approximately 70g—roughly half the weight of a non-tapered fork. This doesn’t make a drastic difference in the overall weight of the bike, but it can have an impact on performance for those looking for maximum speed and efficiency.
In terms of design aesthetics, many prefer the look of a tapered fork, as it offers a more modern look. The taper of the fork gives the bike a sleeker, more attractive appearance.
The construction of the non-tapered and tapered forks also varies. Non-tapered forks are made from straight tubes typically steel, aluminium or carbon fibre. Tapered forks are usually made from a combination of titanium and carbon fiber, offering a lightweight and strong structure.
Ultimately, tapered forks offer a superior ride experience for cyclists, with better stability, shock absorption, and speed merging. While it does come with at an increased price point, the quality of the ride is undeniable. When choosing a bike, it is important to consider the type of riding you most enjoy and the type of fork that will best suit your needs. If you’re looking for a stronger, stiffer ride, with improved road isolation, the tapered fork may be the best option.