Thread: Fork Weight
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Old 04-29-14 | 03:29 PM
  #4  
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waynesulak
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Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Ft Worth, TX

Bikes: Custom 650B tandem by Bob Brown, 650B tandem converted from Santana Arriva, Santana Noventa, Boulder Bicycle 700C, Gunnar Sport

Originally Posted by twocicle
By comparision ENVE's tapered fork is 350gm (w/steerer trimmed to fit). Of course, the ENVE is not "tandem rated", however it is available as an option from some tandem builders. My only beef at the moment is that it only comes in a 43mm offset (if you prefer quicker steering, then more offset can help reduce trail).

I can't speak for ENVE's safety record, but we still have all our front teeth.
If I recall correctly you were looking for about 50mm offset on a new fork. That is the rake that came stock on my Comotion Speeedster and I believe that it is still used by Comotion on its steel forks (other than on the Java). A steel fork will let you try out the handling if you want to go that route. A used one can be had very cheaply for a quick try out.

I completely agree that 50mm rake will be quicker handling than the 43mm rake fork but "quicker handling" is a term that different people understand different ways. There is a tandem carbon fork available that has 55mm rake which will move your handling more in your desired direction. Maybe too far for your tastes but it is an option to be considered. There is a problem in that is is a V-Brake fork. I also hesitate to mention it because of the dislike in this forum, but Santana's forks are 55mm rake and you could ask Chris King if they have a headset that will adapt the 1.25 to your larger than 1.5 head tube. I use a Chris King to run a 1.125 fork in a Santana 1.25 head tube.

I realize you probably don't want to be caught with a Santana fork on your bike but they can be painted and if it gives you the handling you like then it might be worth it.
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