Mountain Biking - RST Gila T5 questions

I know that this isn't a 'recommended' fork, but it's what came on my Trek 4300. I believe it will suit my purposes (asphalt trails, light XC, curb hopping). This fork has preload adjustment. Unfortunately, I'm not exactly sure what that means and I don't find an explanation in the manual.

Question: How should I adjust this for optimum use?

You want to turn the preload knobs clockwise (stiffer) or counterclockwise (less stiff) until the fork compresses about 17-20mm while you're simply sitting on the bike.

Thanks. Sounds easy enough.

I have this fork on my Hardrock and it doesn't seem to do anything when I turn the knobs to adjust it.

Then turn it more :) Seriously, depending on your weight and the amount of sag. Try turning it until it stops clockwise and then backing it off until you're happy.

I had this fork on mybike before I changed it. I do not recommend you do anything to the preload on this fork. Run your preload on the minimum setting, that is screwed counter-clockwise as far as it will go. If you do not you run the risk of the preload caps popping out of the staunchion when you land hard rendering the fork nearly useless. The preload is low effect on the fork action and is more a gimmick than anything else.

Are you saying run it at it's stiffest setting? Would that apply also for a Rock Shox Judy TT? I've read a lot about it bottoming out.

I know nothing about judy's. I'm saying run minimum preload on cheapo RST product or you run the risk of popping the preload adjusters out of the staunchons

Mine's been at the stiffest setting (as if that meant much) for about a year and it hasn't popped off, maybe I was just lucky.

Mine's been at the stiffest setting (as if that meant much) for about a year and it hasn't popped off, maybe I was just lucky.


Could be what you weigh too, I should have mentioned that. Im at the heavy end of the scale. :o

Yeah, I weigh about 140lb.

Yeah I weight about 140.

From my belly button down.

Ahem*% CoughtwocoughthirtycoughsevenCough!!! Yeah could be a weight issue ;)