I’m planning an exciting ebike project using an enduro frame, similar to the popular bomber style, sourced directly. My interest in incorporating a dirt bike fork stems primarily from the advantage of easily integrating a motorcycle-grade front brake system, eliminating the need for adapters. Given that the build will utilize 18″ x 2.15″ dirt bike wheels, opting for a complete dirt bike front wheel with a compatible hub and brake disc seems like a natural fit, moving away from standard MTB hubs. Moreover, the affordability of new dirt Bike Forks is quite appealing. I’m also considering the added front-end weight, which could be beneficial, especially with high-power setups like a 20S battery with 80A+ output, known for causing unwanted wheelies, even more so with 100A or 24S configurations.
Before proceeding, I have a few questions regarding the compatibility and feasibility of this upgrade:
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Fork Softness for Ebike Weight: Will a dirt bike fork be adequately responsive and not too stiff for an ebike setup carrying a rider weight of approximately 45-50kg? Ebike weights are different from regular dirt bikes, so understanding the fork’s performance under this lighter load is crucial.
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Frame Mounting and Adapters: Are specific adapters typically required to mount a dirt bike fork onto an enduro ebike frame? Frame compatibility is a key concern, and knowing if any modifications or special parts are needed is important for planning the build.
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Handlebar and Control Compatibility: Can standard mountain bike handlebars be used with dirt bike forks, or is it necessary to switch to dirt bike handlebars? If dirt bike handlebars are required, will standard MTB brake levers and lock-on grips still be compatible and fit properly? Ensuring compatibility with existing MTB components is essential for a seamless integration.
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Fork Sizing and Dimensions: Are there different sizes and dimensions to consider when selecting dirt bike forks, particularly in terms of length and width? Do variations in fork width affect hub compatibility, or is there a universal standard size for dirt bike fork hubs? Understanding sizing options is vital for choosing the correct fork.
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Dual Disc Brake Compatibility: Is there an option for dirt bike forks designed to accommodate double-sided disc brakes? While potentially overkill for an ebike, the aesthetic appeal of dual front discs is something I’m curious about, although practicality and necessity are also considerations.
Any insights or advice on these points, particularly concerning the use of dirt bike forks on an ebike project, would be greatly appreciated as I move forward with this build.
