Mountain Biking - RockShox Dart 3 problem...

Hello,

I recently purchased an 08 Specialized Rockhopper Disc. So far the bike has been awesome, in fact I love it! Anyway, I am having a problem with the Fork. (Dart 3) It makes a 'clicking' sound when the fork is extended all the way, like when I pull the front wheel up abruptly of the ground, or if I lean back real fast. It even happens when I travel over rough terrain where the fork is retracting and then extending completly. the sound closely resembles the sound of a ball point pin. You know the kind that you click... It is about that loud too, if not a little louder.

It has been doing this since I bought the bike. I have adjusted all the adjustments, lockout, preload, rebound, etc. I have searched all over and havent found anyone that has seemed to have the same problem. Thanks in advance!

Hello,

I recently purchased an 08 Specialized Rockhopper Disc. So far the bike has been awesome, in fact I love it! Anyway, I am having a problem with the Fork. (Dart 3) It makes a 'clicking' sound when the fork is extended all the way, like when I pull the front wheel up abruptly of the ground, or if I lean back real fast. It even happens when I travel over rough terrain where the fork is retracting and then extending completly. the sound closely resembles the sound of a ball point pin. You know the kind that you click... It is about that loud too, if not a little louder.

It has been doing this since I bought the bike. I have adjusted all the adjustments, lockout, preload, rebound, etc. I have searched all over and havent found anyone that has seemed to have the same problem. Thanks in advance!

I think what you're observing is generally called "top out". It's basically the opposite of bottom out. Have you tried slowing the rebound?

Yes, I have tried adjusting the rebound. It helps a little if it is adjusted to the slowest settings (so slow it is uncomfortable to ride) even though the problem is still present. Any other thoughts?

P.S. - thanks for the speedy reply.

Yes, I have tried adjusting the rebound. It helps a little if it is adjusted to the slowest settings (so slow it is uncomfortable to ride) even though the problem is still present. Any other thoughts?

P.S. - thanks for the speedy reply.

Make sure all the bolts on your fork are tight. Check to see if there is a little play in the race as well.

I just got done checking all bolts on it and they seem to be tight/snug... This is really getting on my nerves! The fork works fine it just has this minor problem... ERRG!!! Any other suggestions?

Earplugs?


Just kidding though, I have no suggestions. My Dart3 does not make that noise.

Just bought the same bike, but delivery was delayed due to a fork problem where a replacement part was rapidly sent in. Might check back with the shop and see if its a related problem. My problem was with the lock out mechanism not fully locking out the fork travel when turned all the way to closed. LBS wouldn't let the bike out of the shop without the repair, could be that your did. Not trying to start an epidemic on Rockhopper forks, but it didn't sound like my bike was the only one.

Alright I will check it out. It obviously sounds like something is wrong inside the fork tubes... The only thing that I find odd is that the sound seems to be coming from the side of the fork with the spring in it. Not the side with the lock-out in it. Hmmmmm, I will probably go to my LBS and see what they say. After all, it is a manufacturing defect.

Thanks for your help guys.