The fork on a BMX bicycle is the component that holds the front wheel in place and connects to the handlebars. Because of the jumps and rough terrain encountered in BMX racing, the bicycle's fork will bear the brunt of many impacts over time. This may eventually cause the fork to bend or break, requiring the installation of a replacement component. The process of changing out a BMX bicycle fork is a straightforward one, requiring the use of several hand tools.
Step 1
Trace the bike cable or tubing from the brake lever down to the brake mechanism. Disconnect the cable or tubing from the mechanism. Remove the bolts securing the front wheel's axle to the currently-installed fork.
Step 2
Loosen the two bolts securing the bicycle stem's clamp to the fork. Loosen the compression bolt, located at the top of the bicycle fork. Remove the stem from the bicycle fork. Pull the fork out the bottom end of the frame's head tube; remove any attached spacers, bearing rings and wedge rings.
Step 3
Insert the front wheel's axle into the bottom end of the bicycle fork. Tighten the nuts on either end of the fork to secure the front wheel in place.
Step 4
Insert the bearing rings into the openings on either side of the head tube. Insert the upper end of the new fork into the opening on the bottom of the head tube. Fit the wedge race, dust cap and any desired spaces over the upper end of the fork.
Step 5
Fit the clamp end of the handlebar stem over the upper end of the fork. Push down on the stem until it is as far down the fork as possible. Insert the compression bolt into the upper end of the fork. Tighten the bolt.
Step 6
Connect the brake cable or tubing to the brake mechanism attached to the front wheel. Check that the handlebars are properly aligned with the front wheel. Turn one the bolts located at the end of the stem clam, then turn the remaining bolt; alternate turning each bolt until the stem is properly secured.
Tips and Warnings
- When tightening the compression bolt, confirm that no space remains between any of the components of the fork, including the spacers and bearing rings. Confirm that all the nuts and bolts are properly tightened after installation before you attempt to ride the bicycle. Periodically check the fork for any cracks, bends or signs of damage to the welds; if you notice any defects, install a replacement component.
Things You'll Need
- Open-end wrench
- Allen wrench
- Two bearing rings
- Wedge race
- Spacers
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