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How to identify backward forks?

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Old 05-06-11 | 09:38 PM
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How to identify backward forks?

I have noticed that many bike enthusiasts have talked about the problem of reversed forks on pre-assembled bikes, especially ones sold in large stores. I have decided to buy a NorthRock Xc6 MB from Costco. Judging from the reviews its a good bike for the $$ and it would be hard to find a better value at a LBS.

Many people who have seen the bike at costco have noticed that most come with forks installed backwards. I am no expert on bikes so its very hard for me to identify it. Is there a way to tell and make sure i get the right one. Maybe some diagram or close up pictures to make it easier for me to spot. Thank You
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Old 05-06-11 | 09:40 PM
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Imagine a perfectly straight line down through the steerer tube. The axle should be in front of this line.
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Old 05-06-11 | 10:00 PM
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Why don't you post some photos and we can comment on it.
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Old 05-06-11 | 10:04 PM
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Originally Posted by Scrockern8r
Imagine a perfectly straight line down through the steerer tube. The axle should be in front of this line.

+1. A bike can be ridden with the fork "reversed", but it can be awkward.
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Old 05-06-11 | 11:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Spetsnaz201
NorthRock Xc6 MB from Costco
This appears to be a mountain bike with front suspension fork and disc brakes.

Originally Posted by Spetsnaz201
Many people who have seen the bike at costco have noticed that most come with forks installed backwards. I am no expert on bikes so its very hard for me to identify it.
The disc brake rotor should be on the left side of the bike - the same side as with the back wheel. The brake caliper (the part that grabs the rotor), should be behind the fork.
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Old 05-07-11 | 06:19 AM
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I've seen this on bikes from all the major box stores. It's such a common problem that you'd think the bike manufacturer would put a big "FRONT" sticker on the forks or something.
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Old 05-07-11 | 07:25 AM
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for first time buyers and assemblers and those new to biking will find this really confusing. I personally had problems. It was not in the directions so you are left clueless
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Old 05-07-11 | 07:37 AM
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Originally Posted by laura*
The disc brake rotor should be on the left side of the bike - the same side as with the back wheel. The brake caliper (the part that grabs the rotor), should be behind the fork.
Unless you have one of these:

https://www.cotic.co.uk/product/bikes/roadrat/geared/
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