- Manitou

B
3
7
12
18
23
28
33
39
43
ROOTS, HOLES OR SIMILAR OBSTACLES STRAIGHT ON PUTS FORCES ON YOUR
FORK IT WAS NOT DESIGNED TO ABSORB.
• ENGLISH
MANITOU SUSPENSION FORKS
CONGRATULATIONS ON CHOOSING THE LATEST SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY
AVAILABLE. This fork is fully assembled and ready to be installed onto your bicycle. It
comes equipped with a 1 1/8-inch steerer tube or an optional 1.5 inch tapered steerer, and
may also be available in disc brake only or Hex Lock Thru Axle versions. A handlebarmounted reflector must be used for on-road use, which is not included with your fork.
This manual is designed as a comprehensive guide for all Manitou fork models, including
MATCH COMP, TOWER COMP, EXPERT and PRO, CIRCUS COMP and EXPERT,
MINUTE EXPERT, PRO, TS AIR and MRD, MARVEL COMP, EXPERT and PRO and R7
PRO and MRD. All figures and tables are located at the back of this manual. This manual
can also be downloaded from the www.manitoumtb.com website.
GENERAL CONSUMER SAFETY
INFORMATION
BICYCLING IS A HAZARDOUS ACTIVITY THAT REQUIRES THAT THE RIDER
STAY IN CONTROL OF HIS OR HER BICYCLE AT ALL TIMES. ANY FALL FROM
YOUR BICYCLE CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR EVEN DEATH. READING
THIS MANUAL ENTIRELY, AND PROPERLY MAINTAINING YOUR BICYCLE AND
SUSPENSION FORK WILL REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF INJURY OR DEATH.
PRIOR TO EVERY RIDE, YOU SHOULD CLOSELY EXAMINE YOUR SUSPENSION
FORK (AFTER CLEANING) IN BRIGHT SUNLIGHT TO ENSURE THAT NO DAMAGE
HAS OCCURRED DURING THE COURSE OF RIDING, TRANSPORTING, OR AFTER A
FALL. PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE CROWN, INNER LEGS, OUTER LEGS,
DROPOUTS, BRAKE ARCH AREAS AND “STRESS POINTS” (SUCH AS WELDS,
SEAMS, HOLES AND POINTS OF CONTACT WITH OTHER PARTS ETC.) DO NOT
RIDE YOUR BICYCLE IF THE FORK SHOWS ANY SIGNS OF BENDING, LEAKING,
CRACKING, CREAKING, SQUEAKING, CLUNKING, OR ANY OTHER UNFAMILIAR
NOISES; OR IF IT IS MISSING ANY OF THE ORIGINALLY SUPPLIED COMPONENTS.
CONTACT YOUR DEALER OR MANITOU CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 888/686-3472
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE FUNCTION, INTEGRITY, OR
CONDITION OF YOUR FORK. ANY MODIFICATIONS NOT AUTHORIZED IN THIS
MANUAL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED UNSAFE. IF YOU ARE A MODERATE OR
AGGRESSIVE OFF-ROAD RIDER, OR RIDE AT LEAST THREE TIMES A WEEK OVER
ROUGH TERRAIN, MANITOU RECOMMENDS SERVICING YOUR SUSPENSION FORK
EVERY YEAR. TAKE YOUR FORK TO A MANITOU AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO CAN
SERVICE YOUR FORK, OR CONTACT AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER.
REFLECTORS
MANITOU FORKS ARE DESIGNED FOR OFF-ROAD USE, AND AS SUCH, THEY
DO NOT COME WITH PROPER REFLECTORS FOR ON-ROAD USE. HAVE
YOUR DEALER OR MECHANIC INSTALL PROPER REFLECTORS TO MEET THE
CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION’S (C.P.S.C.) REQUIREMENTS FOR
BICYCLES IF YOUR FORK IS GOING TO BE USED ON PUBLIC ROADS AT ANY TIME.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING C.P.S.C. REFLECTORS, PLEASE CONTACT
YOUR DEALER.
IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU SELECT AND USE THE
SUSPENSION FORK THAT IS APPROPRIATE FOR YOUR
ANTICIPATED RIDING STYLE, THAT YOU USE THE FORK PROPERLY AND FOLLOW
THE WARNINGS CONTAINED IN THE OWNER’S MANUAL, REGARDLESS OF THE
RIDING STYLE. FAILURE TO PROPERLY MATCH THE FORK TO YOUR FRAME
OR RIDING STYLE COULD CAUSE THE FORK TO FAIL, RESULTING IN A LOSS
OF BICYCLE CONTROL AND POSSIBLY SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE
RIDER. IN ADDITION, AN IMPROPER COMBINATION OF FRAME AND FORK FOR
THE INTENDED CATEGORY WILL VOID THE FORK’S WARRANTY. VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT WWW.manitoumtb.com/IU FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION
AND GUIDANCE ON FORK SELECTION FOR YOUR RIDING STYLE. YOU SHOULD
ONLY ATTACH GENERATORS, RACKS, AND DISC BRAKES TO THE DESIGNATED
MOUNTING POINTS PROVIDED ON THE FORKS. NEVER MAKE ANY MODIFICATION
TO YOUR FORK TO ATTACH ANY EQUIPMENT. THERE IS A HEIGHTENED
LEVEL OF VOLUNTARY RISK ASSOCIATED WITH FREERIDING, DIRT JUMPING,
AND DOWNHILLING. LARGER STUNTS/JUMPS MEAN MORE POTENTIAL FOR
EQUIPMENT ISSUES OR PROBLEMS AND THE LIKELIHOOD OF SERIOUS INJURY
IS GREATLY INCREASED. LEARN HOW TO PROPERLY RIDE AROUND OBSTACLES
ON THE TRAIL OR ROAD. HITTING OBSTACLES SUCH AS CURBS, ROCKS, TREES,
LANDING IMPROPERLY AFTER A JUMP OR DROP ALSO PUTS FORCES ON YOUR
FORK IT WAS NOT DESIGNED TO ABSORB. YOU SHOULD ONLY PERFORM JUMPS
OR DROPS WHEN A TRANSITION OR DOWN RAMP IS AVAILABLE TO HELP YOUR
BICYCLE AND FORK ABSORB THE IMPACT FORCES GENERATED DURING THE
LANDING, AND BOTH WHEELS SHOULD SMOOTHLY MAKE CONTACT WITH THE
TRANSITION OR DOWN RAMP AT THE SAME TIME. ANY OTHER TYPE OF LANDING
IS DANGEROUS, AS IT COULD OVERLOAD THE FRAME OR FORK AND RESULT
IN A COMPONENT PART FAILURE AND AN ACCIDENT, OR COULD CAUSE YOU
TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE BICYCLE, EVEN WITHOUT A COMPONENT PART
FAILURE. THE STEEPNESS AND LENGTH OF THE TRANSITION OR DOWN RAMP
DEPENDS ON THE HEIGHT FROM WHICH YOU JUMP OR DROP. EVERY SITUATION
IS DIFFERENT FOR EVERY RIDER; CONSULT WITH AN EXPERIENCED RIDER
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY JUMP OR DROP.
FAILURE TO PROPERLY RIDE AROUND OBSTACLES ON THE TRAIL, OR FAILURE
TO PROPERLY LAND AFTER A JUMP OR DROP COULD CAUSE YOUR FORKS TO
FAIL, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF BICYCLE CONTROL AND, POSSIBLY, SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH TO THE RIDER. RIDE ONLY IN AREAS SPECIFICALLY
DESIGNATED FOR YOUR RIDING STYLE. DO NOT MISUSE OR ABUSE YOUR
FORKS. LEARN HOW TO RIDE, AND ALWAYS RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES.
OUT-OF-CONTROL RIDING PUTS THE EQUIVALENT OF YEARS OF HARD USE
ON YOUR FORKS AFTER ONLY A FEW RIDES. SOMETIMES THE DAMAGE IS NOT
OBVIOUS TO THE USER, BUT COULD HAVE FAILED INTERNAL COMPONENTS OR
DAMAGED THE LOAD CARRYING ABILITIES OF THE MATERIALS USED IN THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE FORK.
ALL SUSPENSION FORKS REQUIRE REGULAR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR.
THE HARDER YOU RIDE, THE MORE OFTEN YOU MUST INSPECT AND MAINTAIN
YOUR FORKS. IF YOUR FORKS START MAKING ANY STRANGE NOISES, CLUNKS,
CREAKS, CLICKS, OR FEEL “LOOSE” OR DIFFERENT IN ANY WAY, THEY
SHOULD NOT CONTINUE BEING USED, BUT IMMEDIATELY HAVE A CERTIFIED
MANITOU SERVICE CENTER INSPECT AND REPAIR THE FORKS BEFORE YOU
RIDE AGAIN. INSPECT YOUR FORKS REGULARLY TO SEE THAT THEY ARE NOT
BENT, DEFORMED, CRACKED, OR CHIPPED. NO MATTER HOW SLIGHT, THEY
SHOULD NOT CONTINUE TO BE USED. IMMEDIATELY HAVE A CERTIFIED MANITOU
SERVICE CENTER INSPECT AND REPAIR THE FORKS BEFORE BEING USED
AGAIN.
Identify Your Riding Style
It is critical that you select and use the suspension fork that is appropriate for your
anticipated riding style, that you use the fork properly and follow all warnings contained in
this owner’s manual regardless of the riding style. See below for different riding categories.
Visit our website at www.manitoumtb.com/iu for more detailed information and guidance on
fork selection for your riding style.
Trekking (TK): Trekking is similar to XC riding but not as aggressive as XC. It involves
slower riding, typically on paved and smooth roads, and no riding obstacles such as rocks,
roots, or depressions.
Cross Country (XC): Also called “marathon riding”. Involves riding along hilly trails
where some bumps and smaller obstacles, such as rocks, roots, or depressions, may
be encountered. XC RIDING DOES NOT INCLUDE LARGE JUMPS OR DROPS (riding
off rocks, fallen trees or ledges) from any height. XC forks must only be used with tires
specifically designed for cross country riding. XC forks can be used with disc, rim or linear
pull brakes.
All Mountain (AM): Riding with more emphasis on aggressive XC riding with larger
obstacles and rough terrain. AM RIDING DOES NOT INCLUDE LARGE JUMPS OR
DROPS (riding off rocks, fallen trees or ledges) from any height. These forks should be
used only with disc brakes, as well as frames, wheels, and other components specifically
designed for this riding style.
Freeride (FR): This riding style is for skilled riders and involves aggressive slopes, very
rough terrain, large obstacles, and moderate jumps. Freeride forks should be used only
with disc brakes as well as frames, wheels and other components specifically designed for
freeriding.
Dirt Jumping (DJ): Also called “Urban Riding”, this type of riding is only for the most
skilled riders and involves jumping from one mound of dirt to another and landing smoothly
on a downside transition. It also includes riding or jumping over and around man-made or
other concrete structures. These forks should be used only with frames, wheels and other
components specifically designed for this riding style.
Downhill (DH): This discipline is only for professional or highly-skilled riders. It includes
use on relatively high jumps (or “drops”) and negotiating larger obstacles such as
boulders, fallen trees or holes. These forks should be used only with disc brakes, as well
as frames, wheels, and other components specifically designed for this riding style.
INTENDED USES
Visit our website at www.manitoumtb.com/iu for more detailed information and guidance
on fork selection for your riding style.
Trekking
Forks for smooth pavement riding.
Cross Country
Intermediate terrain, expeditions and
competition use.
All Mountain
Riding based with more emphasis on aggressive
XC riding with larger obstacles.
Freeride
Forks for the roughest descents, jumps and
drops.
Dirt Jumping
Suspension for big air, manmade stunts and dual
slalom courses.
Downhill
Forks for aggressive downhill riding and pro
racing.
FORK
MODEL
•
•
TOWER PRO,
EXPERT, COMP
•
•
MINUTE MRD,
PRO, EXPERT,
TS AIR
•
•
R7 MRD, PRO
MARVEL
CIRCUS
EXPERT, COMP
The life of this fork will be reduced if (1) you use it more than
the average user, (2) you are heavier than the average rider, (3)
the terrain you ride on is rougher than average, (4) you tend
to be harder on components than the average rider, (5) it is
installed or maintained improperly, (6) it must endure more adverse
environmental conditions than the average fork (i.e. sweat,
corrosive mud, salty beach air, etc.), and/or (7) you damage it in a
crash, jump, or through other abuse. The more factors you meet,
the more its life will be reduced, however it is impossible to say
how much.
PRESS FIT CROWNS
REPLACEMENT OF THE ENTIRE CROWN/STEERER ASSEMBLY MUST BE DONE TO
INCREASE STEERER TUBE LENGTHS OR CHANGE DIAMETERS. REMOVING AND
REPLACING THE STEERER TUBE WILL RESULT IN AN UNSAFE CONDITION AND
SHOULD NEVER BE DONE.
•
•
Please see the website at www.manitoumtb.com for additional information.
“DOWNHILL”, “FREESTYLE”
OR COMPETITIVE RIDING
To ride downhill at high speed or in competition is to voluntarily
assume a very high risk, and downhill or freestyle riding can lead
to serious accidents. Speeds “downhilling” can reach speeds seen
on motorcycles with similar hazards and risks. Wear appropriate
safety gear, including a full face helmet, full finger gloves, and
body armor. Have your bicycle inspected by a qualified mechanic
before every event and be sure it is in perfect working condition.
Routine and thorough maintenance is even more critical than
with a bike not used for downhilling or freestyle riding. Consult
with expert riders and race officials on conditions and equipment
advisable at the site where you plan to ride downhill or freestyle.
Suspension and disk brakes may increase the handling capabilities
and comfort of your bicycle and may allow you to ride faster,
But do not confuse the enhanced capabilities of a suspension
bike with disk brakes with your own capabilities. Increasing your
skill will take time and practice. Proceed carefully until you are
sure you are competent to handle the full capabilities of your
bike. While the rugged appearance of mountain bikes and these
disk brakes might suggest they are indestructible, they are not.
Certainly they are tough and sturdy. Downhill or freestyle riding
or racing places extreme stress on bicycles and their components
(like it does riders). Repeated use of a fork in downhill riding may
result in sudden or premature failure of a bicycle or component
resulting in severe injuries. If you participate in these types of
REDUCED FORK LIFE
THE STEERER TUBE (ON BOTH SINGLE AND DOUBLE CROWN FORKS) AND
STANCHIONS (INNER LEGS ON SINGLE CROWN FORKS) ARE PRESS FIT AT THE
FACTORY AND SHOULD NEVER BE REMOVED FROM THE CROWN. PRESSING
THEM OUT WILL PERMANENTLY DAMAGE THE CROWN BEYOND REPAIR AND
RENDER IT UNSAFE FOR ANY CONTINUED USE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO THREAD A
THREADLESS STEERER TUBE. CUTTING THREADS WILL WEAKEN THE STEERER
TUBE AND CAUSE AN UNSAFE CONDITION. OBTAIN THE CORRECT CROWN/
STEERER FROM YOUR DEALER, OR CONTACT MANITOU CUSTOMER SERVICE AT
888/686-3472.
INTENDED USE
MATCH COMP
events, the lifetime of the product may be significantly shortened
depending upon the level and amount of racing. The “normal wear”
of a component may differ greatly between competitive and noncompetitive uses, which is why professional leveL riders often use
new bikes and components each season as well as HAVE their bikes
serviceD by professional mechanics.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Ensure that the proper steerer tube has been delivered on your fork first. The
steerer tube may need to be cut to length to fit your bicycle head tube. If you are
not familiar with this procedure, or do not have the proper tools to cut the steerer
tube, it is recommended that you seek a dealer with a qualified bicycle mechanic
to perform the installation. When cutting a steering column of a fork make sure
to measure twice before cutting; forks cut too short during installation are NOT
covered by the warranty.
BREAK-IN
Your new fork is designed to break in during your first few rides (about 20 hours total riding
time). Prior to break-in, you may notice your fork feels tight and slightly notchy. Following
the break-in period, your fork will feel much smoother and will react to bumps much
better than when you first put it on your bike. After 20 hours, you may want to recheck
adjustments (where applicable) to fine-tune the fork completely.
Whenever you install any new component on
your bike make sure you thoroughly try it out
close to home (with your helmet) where there are no obstacles,
traffic, or overly challenging terrain. Make sure everything is
working properly before going off on a ride or to a race.
Fork Installation – SINGLE CROWN FORKS
1. Remove the old fork from your bicycle.
2. Measure and cut the steerer tube to fit your bicycle head tube (see CAUTION above).
You can use your old fork as a guide for cutting the steerer tube length.
3. Remove the headset crown race from the old fork and press onto the fork steerer
until the race is seated snugly against the top of the crown per the headset
manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Clean and grease the headset bearings and races per the headset manufacturer’s
instructions.
5. Install the lower bearings (if applicable) on fork crown race per the headset
manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Insert the steerer tube into the head tube of the frame.
7. Install the upper bearings, stem spacers, and stem.
8. Install the stem cap and bolt. Tighten the bolt to headset manufacturer’s
specifications.
9. Install the handlebars and torque the stem pinch screws or stem clamping system to
stem manufacturer’s specifications.
10. Install the brakes and adjust per the brake manufacturer’s instructions.
11. For forks equipped with a MILO remote lockout lever, install the lever in an easily
accessible position and torque to values indicated in Table 3 at the back of this
manual.
12. For forks with standard dropouts (non through axle), adjust the front wheel quick
release to clear the 0.275” (7 mm) thick secondary catch dropout. The quick
release must be tightened to quick release manufacturer’s specifications after it is
properly seated into the dropout counter bores. Ensure that there is adequate thread
engagement (4 or more threads with the release adjusted to lock). Refer to your
bicycle owner’s manual on the proper use and adjustment of the quick release lever.
Note: Forks with standard dropouts are equipped with a secondary catch dropout to
retain the wheel in the fork in the event the quick release comes loose.
13. To install the hex axle, simply slip the axle into the dropout, small axle hex side first
into the large dropout hex. Thread in the set bolt into the small hex side and snug
slightly. Push the fork up and down a few times to center the axle and hub and then
tighten all pinch bolts to recommendations found in Table 3.
14. Install the brake cable per manufacturer’s instructions (see warning below).
BRAKE CABLE INSTALLATION
FAILURE TO PROPERLY ROUTE AND SECURELY ATTACH
THE front BRAKE CABLE TO THE FORK CAN CAUSE
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Included with your fork is a small black disc brake cable guide (part no. 066455) that
can be attached to the fork to aid in routing the cables to disc brake calipers. Forks with
integrated cable guides will instead come with a standard zip tie. The best method we’ve
found is to attach the cable so that it runs down the outside of the left fork leg. Make sure
the brake line is not crimped and does not touch the tire as the fork moves through its
range of travel.
5.
On air forks, remove the Schrader air cap located on the top of the left leg and, using
a dedicated shock pump (Manitou part #85-4162), inflate the fork with the desired
pressure. Be aware that the slight sound of air hissing during pump removal is
caused by air leaving the pump, not the fork.
6. If adjusting the preload or air pressure does not provide the proper sag, you may
require a new ride kit.
ADJUSTING MAIN SPRING AIR PRESSURE
Remove the air cap located on the top of the left fork leg and, using a dedicated air pump
(Manitou Part #85-4162), inflate the fork with the desired pressure. Be aware that the
slight sound of air hissing during pump removal is caused by air leaving the pump, not the
fork.
Atmospheric Controlled Tuning (ACT) Air is designed to allow the rider to tune the coil
spring rate without the need to replace the main spring. Maximum spring air pressure is
50 psi (3.5 bar) for ACT Air. Most riders will find a pressure between 10 psi and 30 psi
(0.7 and 2 bar) to be optimal. If at maximum pressure you are getting more than the
recommended sag, you will need to go to a firmer spring kit. These can be ordered from
your local dealer.
Maximum main spring air pressure is 110 psi (7.5 bar) for the MARS Air spring. Most
riders will find 80-100 psi (5.5-7 bar) to be optimal. If at maximum pressure you are getting
more than the recommended sag, you will need to go to a firmer spring kit. These can be
ordered from your local dealer.
Maximum main spring air pressure is 150 psi (10.4 bar) for the TS Air system in the R7
forks and 120 psi (8.27 bar) in the Minute TS Air fork. Most riders will find 80-110 psi
(5.5-7.5 bar) to be optimal with the R7 forks and 60-90 (4.1-6.2 bar) to be optimal with the
Minute TS Air.
Maximum main spring pressure is 120 psi (8.27 bar) for the ISO Air system. Most riders
will find 60-90 psi (4.1-6.2 bar) to be optimal with ISO Air.
AIR PRESSURE CHARTS
Below are air pressure charts to aid you in setting your fork up. Here is a list of the
different air systems and which fork uses them.
MARS AIR - Tower Pro, Minute Pro, Minute MRD
ACT AIR - Tower Expert, Minute Expert, Circus Expert
TS AIR - R7 Pro, R7 MRD, Minute TS AIR
ISO AIR - Marvel
WHEN INSTALLING THE WHEEL WITH A PROPERLY
INFLATED TIRE, CHECK TO MAKE SURE THE
FORK ACHIEVES MINIMUM TIRE CLEARANCE. FAILURE TO CONFORM TO
RECOMMENDED TIRE CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS MAY CAUSE THE TIRE TO
STOP SUDDENLY DURING USE CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
Measure minimum tire clearance from any point on the profile of the tire upward to the
bottom of the brake arch (see Figure A). Compare to Table 1 for minimum brake arch
clearance. All figures are located at the back of this manual.
Measure the tire at maximum width (see Figure B). Compare with Table 1 for maximum
tire width.
R7 PRO & MRD
MINUTE TS AIR
INITIAL SET-UP
MEASURING SAG (the amount your suspension compresses due to the weight
of your body when in a natural riding position)
To measure sag, you’ll need a tape measure, zip tie, a pencil, a piece of paper and a
helper.
1. Tie a zip tie around the fork leg and push it down to the top of the dust seal.
2. Have the rider sit on the bike. It is important to be in the normal riding position
(weight centered) with your feet on the pedals. Have the rider get off the bike and
allow fork to go back to full extension.
3. Measure the distance between the top of the dust seal and zip tie. Table 2 shows the
amount of sag you should have depending on the travel of your fork.
4. On coil forks with preload adjusters, turning the knob clockwise increases spring
preload and decreases sag, while turning the knob counterclockwise decreases
spring preload and increases sag.
Before every ride you should:
COMPRESSION DAMPING ADJUSTMENT – ABSOLUTE+ DAMPING
and MILO REMOTE LOCKOUT
Forks equipped with the Absolute+ damper can be upgraded to the MILO integrated
remote lockout system. MILO is an “on or off” system designed to be mounted on the
handlebar for easier activation.
1. Ensure that the quick release skewers are properly adjusted and tight. Refer
to your bicycle owner’s manual on the proper use and adjustment of the
quick release lever and for other pre ride checks. Note: Forks with standard
dropouts are equipped with a secondary catch dropout to retain the wheel in
the fork in the event the quick release comes loose.
2. Ensure that all bolts are tightened to the appropriate torque recommendations
by the part’s respective manufacturer.
3. Wipe the inner legs and clean the fork. Check the entire fork for any obvious
damage.
4. Check the headset for proper adjustment. To check for a loose front headset
apply the front brake with both wheels on level pavement and push the bike
forwards and backwards rapidly to see if you hear the headset rattling. If it is,
then it is too loose. Follow headset manufacturer’s instructions to tighten.
5. Ensure that the front brake cable is properly routed and check brake
adjustment. Follow brake manufacturer’s instructions.
COMPRESSION DAMPING ADJUSTMENTS – ABSOLUTE+
CHECKING OIL LEVEL
Absolute+ allows the rider to dial in increasing amounts of compression damping by
clockwise rotation of the adjuster knob. The final position provides platform for pedaling
efficiency. The level of platform can be adjusted internally with shim changes. See
www.manitoumtb.com for more information.
Setting the proper oil level in your damped
suspension fork is critical. The damping is
located in the right leg of your fork. Not enough oil will allow
foaming and reduce the performance. Too much oil will restrict
travel and may cause damage to the system and create an unsafe
riding condition. Finish reading this entire section prior to altering
the oil level.
REBOUND DAMPING ADJUSTMENT
Rebound adjusters on Manitou forks are located on the bottom of the right fork leg. Turning
the knob clockwise (as you are looking at the fork from the bottom) increases rebound
damping, while turning the knob counterclockwise decreases rebound damping. Harsh ride
can be caused by rebound settings that are too slow.
To check the oil level, remove the compression assembly located in the right leg (as you
are looking at the fork from the rider’s position). Leave the spring stack in place to keep
the fork fully extended. Use a tape measure or “dip stick” to measure from the top surface
of the fork leg to the oil surface (See Figure C at the back of the manual). Please consult
www.manitoumtb.com for the correct oil level for your fork model.
NOTE: Use SAE 5WT suspension fork oil from high quality manufacturers such as
Motorex or Maxima.
MAINTENANCE
Your fork requires periodic maintenance, cleaning, and inspection. This is because
moisture and contamination may build up inside the fork depending on the severity
of riding conditions. To maintain top performance, it is recommended that the fork be
periodically disassembled, cleaned, dried and relubricated. After every ride wipe down the
inner legs and the seal area to extend the life of the seal. You can download service and
tuning instructions on the web at www.manitoumtb.com.
Suggested Service Intervals for
ALL MANITOU SUSPENSION Forks
NORMAL CONDITIONS
Short, Sporadic Rides
Long, Frequent Rides
Disassemble fork per Service Manual.
Clean out casting and replace Semi Bath
oil every 6 months. Service damping
systems by changing the damper oil every
year. Grease spring stack as needed. On
air fork models, check the oil level sitting
on top of the air piston every 2 months per
directions found on www.manitoumtb.com.
Disassemble fork per Service Manual.
Clean out casting and replace Semi Bath
oil every 4 months. Service damping
systems by changing the damper oil every
year. Grease spring stack as needed. On
air fork models, check the oil level sitting
on top of the air piston every 6 weeks per
directions found on www.manitoumtb.com.
QR15 Installation Instructions
1.
2.
3.
4.
Flip the lever to the open position. You’ll see an open arrow on the side of the lever.
Align cross pin with the arrow on the axle. You will feel it click into place when it is in
the proper position.
Place wheel into fork. Insert axle into the drive side dropout of the fork. When
inserting the axle, you want to make sure that the writing on the axle is facing up and
that the cross pin is vertical. The lever of the axle will be pointing out towards the front
of the fork. Insert axle thru the casting and hub until it stops (the o-ring by the tension
dial should be inside the casting counter bore).
Rotate lever 90 degrees clockwise until you feel it click into place.
Flip lever up to the closed position locking the axle. If it feels like it requires too much
force to close the lever, adjust the tension with the adjuster dial. Adjust by turning the
adjuster dial clockwise to decrease tension. Counter-clockwise rotation will increase
tension if the axle feels too loose when closing the lever.
SEVERE CONDITIONS
Short, Sporadic Rides
Long, Frequent Rides
Disassemble fork per Service Manual.
Clean out casting and replace Semi Bath
oil every 4 months. Service damping
systems by changing the damper oil every
year. Grease spring stack as needed. On
air fork models, check the oil level sitting
on top of the air piston every 6 weeks per
directions found on www.manitoumtb.com.
Disassemble fork per Service Manual.
Clean out casting and replace Semi Bath
oil every 3 months. Service damping
systems by changing the damper oil every
year. Grease spring stack as needed. On
air fork models, check the oil level sitting
on top of the air piston every 4 weeks per
directions found on www.manitoumtb.com.
If you have any questions regarding your Manitou suspension fork, in the USA contact the
Manitou Customer Service Department at 888/686-3472, or for information outside of the
USA contact your authorized Manitou dealer or distributor. You can also log on to www.
manitoumtb.com and download this manual or see detailed instructions on how to service
your suspension fork.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Any Hayes Bicycle Group (HBG) product found by the factory to be defective in
materials and/or workmanship within one year (two years in European Union
countries) from the date of purchase will be repaired or replaced at the option
of the manufacturer, free of charge, when received at the factory or authorized
distributor locations with proof of purchase, freight prepaid. Any other warranty
claims not included in this statement are void. This includes assembly costs (for
instance by the dealer), which shall not be covered by HBG. This warranty does
not cover breakage, bending, or damage that may result from crashes or falls.
This warranty does not cover any defects or damage caused by alterations or
modification of new HBG products or parts or by normal wear, accidents, improper
maintenance, damages caused by the use of parts of different manufacturers,
improper use or abuse of the product, or failure to follow instructions contained in
the applicable instruction manual. Any modifications made by the user will render
the warranty null and void. The cost of normal maintenance or replacement of
service items, which are not defective, shall be paid for by the original purchaser. This
warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties, and any implied are
limited in duration to the same duration as the expressed warranty herein. HBG
shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages. Customers in
countries other than USA should contact their dealer or local HBG distributor.
TABLE 1 - WHEEL CLEARANCE
FORK MODEL
MINIMUM ARCH
CLEARANCE
MAXIMUM
TIRE WIDTH
(SEE FIGURE A)
(SEE FIGURE B)
R7 MRD, R7
12,5 mm
60 mm
MATCH COMP;
TOWER PRO, EXPERT,
COMP;
MINUTE MRD, PRO,
EXPERT, LTD;
CIRCUS EXPERT, COMP
MARVEL
9,5 mm
63 mm
TABLE 2 - SAG MEASUREMENT
FORK TRAVEL
SAG
80 mm
12 - 16 mm
100 mm
15 - 20 mm
120 mm
18 - 30 mm
130 mm
26 - 33 mm
140 mm
27 - 36 mm
TABLE 3 - RECOMMENDED TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
ITEM
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS - Nm
(in-lbs)
HEX AXLE BOLTS
3,4 - 4,5 Nm (30 - 40 in-lb)
REMOTE HANDLEBAR CLAMP
0,45 - 0,68 Nm (4 - 6 in-lb)
REMOTE LEVER CABLE CLAMP
SCREW
0,34 - 0,56 Nm (3 - 5 in-lb)
• DEUTSCH
MANITOU FEDERGABELN
WIR GRATULIEREN IHNEN ZUR WAHL DER NEUESTEN ERHÄLTLICHEN
FEDERUNGSTECHNOLOGIE. Diese Gabel ist zum Einbau in das Fahrrad fertig
vormontiert. Sie wird mit einem 28,5 mm (1 1/8 Zoll) Gabelschaftrohr oder einem
optionalen 38 mm (1,5 Zoll) konischen Gabelschaftrohr geliefert und ist u.U. auch in
Scheibenbremsen- oder Sechskant-Steckachsen-Ausführung erhältlich. Ein am Lenker
angebrachter Reflektor ist während des Radfahrens auf der Straße zu benutzen. Dieser
Reflektor ist nicht im Lieferumfang der Gabel enthalten.
Diese Anleitung gilt für alle Manitou Gabeln, einschließlich der Modelle MATCH COMP,
TOWER COMP, EXPERT und PRO, CIRCUS COMP und EXPERT, MINUTE EXPERT,
PRO, TS AIR und MRD, MARVEL COMP, EXPERT und PRO sowie R7 PRO und MRD.
Alle Abbildungen und Tabellen sind am Ende dieser Anleitung zu finden. Diese Anleitung
kann auch von der Website www.manitoumtb.com heruntergeladen werden.
INFORMATIONEN ZUR
VERBRAUCHERSICHERHEIT
FAHRRADFAHREN IST GEFÄHRLICH, UND DER RADFAHRER MUSS DAS FAHRRAD
JEDERZEIT UNTER KONTROLLE HABEN. JEDER STURZ MIT DEM FAHRRAD
KANN ZU SCHWEREN ODER GAR TÖDLICHEN VERLETZUNGEN FÜHREN. DAS
DURCHLESEN DER GESAMTEN ANLEITUNG UND EINE ORDNUNGSGEMÄSSE
INSTANDHALTUNG DES FAHRRADES SOWIE DER FEDERGABEL VERRINGERN
DIE GEFAHR VON VERLETZUNGEN ODER UNFÄLLEN MIT TÖDLICHEN FOLGEN
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GELIEFERTEN TEILE FEHLT. BITTE SETZEN SIE SICH BEI FRAGEN ZU FUNKTION,
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MINDESTENS DREI GELÄNDEFAHRTEN PRO WOCHE EMPFIEHLT MANITOU, DIE
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GEEIGNETE REFLEKTOREN GEMÄSS DEN STRASSENVERKEHRS- UND
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FRAGEN ZU DEN STRASSENVERKEHRS- UND SICHERHEITSVORSCHRIFTEN
BEANTWORTET IHNEN DER HÄNDLER.
DIE FEDERGABEL MUSS ENTSPRECHEND IHRES
ERWARTETEN FAHRSTILS AUSGEWÄHLT UND
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ANWEISUNGEN IN DIESER ANLEITUNG VERWENDEN, UND ALLE IN DIESER
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GABEL FÜR DIE ERWARTETE DISZIPLIN