Suspension forks for 29" bikes

Suspension forks designed for 29" bikes are designed to improve the overall riding experience and provide a balance between control, comfort, and performance on a variety of terrains. These forks are specifically designed for 29" wheels and are optimized to maximize the benefits of larger wheel diameters.

When choosing a 29-inch suspension MTB fork, riders should consider their specific needs, budget constraints, and the types of trails they plan to ride. Testing different forks and seeking advice from experienced riders can help you find the ideal suspension fork for the optimal riding experience.

Why choose a 29" fork? (Main benefits)

The physics of large wheels combined with a quality fork brings three fundamental benefits to the rider:

Approach angle and smoothness: A larger wheel has a smaller approach angle to an obstacle. In practice, this means that the 29" fork does not “get stuck” on roots and rocks, but rolls over them more smoothly. The ride is calmer and less tiring.
Traction and stability: The larger wheel diameter means the tire has a longer contact patch with the terrain, allowing the fork to maintain grip even in situations where a smaller wheel would slip.
Inertia: Although the start-up is a bit slower, once the 29" wheel is spinning, it maintains speed better than smaller sizes.

How to choose the right 29" fork?

To avoid getting lost, orient yourself primarily by the stroke and thickness of the inner legs:

Cross-Country (XC) and Marathon

Stroke: 100 mm – 120 mm
Features: Low weight (often under 1500 g) and efficient power transfer are the priority. These forks have thinner legs (32 mm) and almost always feature a remote lockout so you don't waste energy on climbs.
Typical representatives: RockShox SID, Fox 32 Step-Cast.

Trail and All-Mountain

Stroke: 130 mm – 150 mm
Features: The golden mean. These forks are beefier (34 mm or 35 mm legs) to handle jumps and technical terrain, but still light enough for all-day rides. The emphasis is on responsive damping.
Typical representatives: RockShox Pike, Fox 34.

Enduro and Freeride

Stroke: 160 mm – 180 mm
Features: Solid construction with thick legs (36 mm or 38 mm) for maximum rigidity during braking and impacts. Weight goes sideways, adjustability (slow/fast compression, rebound) and durability are important.
Typical representatives: RockShox ZEB, Fox 38.

What does "Tapered" neck mean, and will it fit me?

Tapered steerer is the standard on 99% of quality 29" forks today. This means that the fork stem is wider at the bottom (1.5") and narrower at the top (1 1/8"). This increases stiffness.

If you have an older bike with a straight head tube (for a straight 1 1/8" neck), you won't be able to fit a Tapered fork there (there are only special reducing headsets, but they only work on certain frames). Always check the headset before buying.

Air vs. spring fork – which one to choose?

Air: The best choice for 95% of riders. It's lightweight, and you can adjust the firmness to your exact weight using a pump.
Coil: Today it is used either on the cheapest bikes (heavy steel springs), or on the contrary on top-end Enduro/DH machines (sensitive, linear but heavier).

If you ride XC, Trail, or regular touring, definitely look for an air fork.