Tech Tip: Air Fork Setup Presented By Vital MX

Dirt bike suspension can be a highly debatable topic and things can get pretty heated when settings and adjustments comes up. What may work for one rider may be totally different than what another rider of the same, height, weight, and skill may like-it really does come down to personal preference. Between spring rates and compression and damping settings, finding the ideal setup can really take a mental toll on some riders. And wouldn't you know it, just as many riders were finally figuring out how to dial in their front suspension certain manufacturers began incorporating air fork into their models.

Setting up a dirt bike with air forks isn't rocket science and once you understand how it all works it can be rather easy to find the setting you like. Before you get started however, it's best to make sure that you have the proper tools, most importantly an air pump and air pressure gauge. If you buy a brand new dirt bike with air forks it may or may not come with an air pump and if it doesn't we recommend something like the Works Connection Digital Pump Shock Pump.

This pump will enable you to get a very precise measurement every time you address your settings. Another thing to keep in mind is that if your TAC or negative pressure chamber has the Schrader valve pointing downwards like on some Honda's then you might want to install a front disc cover to help keep oil misting onto your rotor when removing the air pump.

If you're not completely sure how air forks work, let alone how to properly set them up, this video from our friends over a t Vital MX should help.