I am about to start a Cinelli build. The fork that came with the frame is a 45deg. Tusk fork. I have an Easton EC90 SLx fork that I would like to use, but it is a 43 deg. rake. What would be the effect on handling, ride characteristics, etc... if I were to use the Easton fork? I suppose the stock 45deg. fork was matched to the frame based on geometry specs? Should I just use the original fork?
Thanks.

First the rake is measured in millimeters, not degrees.

The change from 45 mm to 43 mm would have the effect of slowing the steering response and increasing straight line stability. But the difference from this change would be very slight and almost insignificant. I expect if you rode the two forks back-to-back you'd be hard pressed to tell which had which rake.

Fork rake is in millimeters, not degrees.

The 43mm rake of the EC90 SLx will give you a hair more trail than the original 45mm rake fork, resulting in an ever so slight improvement in stability at the expense of an ever so slight reduction in steering quickness. I'll bet you won't notice the difference.

EDIT - Damn, HillRider, you're fast (and accurate).

Thanks for the help guys. As for the "degree" error, I was thinking of the headset. Thanks again for your help.

I had an opportunity to replace my Ouzo Pro 43 mm rake fork with an Ouzo Pro 40 mm rake fork. Every thing except the rake remained the same. I could definitely feel the difference on the first ride, but it was not a huge difference. I elected to stay with the 40 mm because the bike (Trek 5500) has a steep head tube angle and I thought needed more trail.

Al

Headsets got degrees?

Sure, mine has a PhD.

Fast, accurate and funny!