Cane Creek Introduces Groundbreaking Invert Gravel Suspension Forks
Cane Creek proudly unveils its latest innovation: the groundbreaking Invert gravel suspension fork, boldly dubbed as the “world’s first gravel fork.” While this claim may raise eyebrows in a market saturated with gravel suspension forks, Cane Creek’s confidence stems from a critical assessment of existing options. Many available forks, according to Cane Creek, suffer from being either too rigid or overly complex with unnecessary adjustments for gravel riding. Enter the Invert, positioned as the optimal solution—a true ‘Goldilocks’ among its counterparts.
Two Models, Two Paths: Meet the Invert SL and Invert CS
Cane Creek offers the Invert in two distinct variations: the Invert SL and the Invert CS. The Invert SL represents a sleek and lightweight option, boasting 30mm of travel and a claimed weight of 990g. Priced at ÂŁ1,099.99 / $1,099.99, this model caters to riders seeking a minimalist approach to gravel suspension. On the other hand, the Invert CS elevates the experience with 40mm of travel and introduces a ‘firm mode’ activated by a single-click, crown-mounted Climb Switch. Weighing in at 1,113g, this model is priced slightly higher at ÂŁ1,199.99 / $1,199.99. While European and Australian pricing awaits confirmation, anticipation for these game-changing forks runs high.
Redefining Gravel Bike Suspension
Cane Creek prompts riders to reassess the role of suspension in gravel biking. The brand contends that current options fall short, either lacking in performance or presenting divisive aesthetics and limited adjustability. Instead of simply downsizing mountain bike forks, Cane Creek advocates for a fresh approach.
The Invert Advantage
According to Cane Creek, the Invert excels at dampening vibrations, providing riders with the confidence and control to navigate rough terrain smoothly. This enhanced comfort is a natural consequence of effective suspension, asserts the brand. Moreover, the Invert is positioned as a means to elevate the gravel biking experience without compromising its essence.
Appealing to a Broader Audience
Cane Creek emphasizes the Invert’s suitability for riders seeking to push the boundaries of gravel biking. By catering to those who may not typically opt for suspension setups, the brand aims to broaden the appeal of the Invert. This inclusivity extends to riders looking to tackle more challenging trails with added confidence.
Setting a New Standard
While Cane Creek offers alternative compliance solutions like the eeSilk stems and seatposts, it distinguishes the Invert as a superior option for enhancing bike control. Notably, the brand advises against pairing the Invert fork with the eeSilk stem, highlighting the unique benefits of the Invert’s design.
Innovation in Development
Unlike merely downsizing existing mountain bike forks, the Invert represents a ground-up development effort by Cane Creek. Notably, it marks the brand’s debut in carbon fiber product manufacturing, signaling a commitment to innovation and excellence.
Craftsmanship and Integration
Cane Creek’s commitment to quality is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship of the Invert forks. Designed, prototyped, and rigorously tested at the brand’s facility in Fletcher, North Carolina, the production process involves sourcing components from Taiwan and assembling them in-house. A key consideration in the design process was ensuring seamless integration with gravel bikes, avoiding any disruption to the bike’s aesthetic appeal.
Targeting a Specific Audience
Cane Creek’s focus on riders accustomed to rigid forks on gravel bikes underscores the Invert’s niche appeal. By addressing the needs of this demographic, the brand seeks to carve a distinct identity for the Invert in the gravel biking market.
The brand also avoids incorporating excessive adjustability into the Invert, asserting that it possesses “everything you need and nothing you don’t”. Once installed, Cane Creek simplifies the setup process, stating that riders simply need to pressurize the fork to 95 percent of their rider weight. Compression or rebound tuning is not required, and the climb switch on the Invert CS operates in a binary manner – it’s either on or off.
Why the inverted design?: Enhancing Performance
Despite Cane Creek’s criticism of other gravel suspension forks’ aesthetics, the Invert distinguishes itself with its inverted design, positioning the stanchions at the fork’s base. This unconventional approach draws inspiration from motorbikes, a passion shared by many Cane Creek staff members. Inverted forks, commonly seen on motorcycles, offer increased chassis rigidity, notably improving handling, especially during cornering maneuvers.
Enhanced Sensitivity and Performance
Inverted forks boast heightened sensitivity compared to conventional counterparts. Suspension oil accumulates at the bottom of the fork leg, ensuring continuous lubrication of critical components like stanchions, seals, and bushes. This results in smoother performance, further accentuated by the favorable ratio of sprung to unsprung mass. Additionally, the inverted design contributes to the lightest possible chassis, minimizing unsprung weight and enhancing overall performance.
Optimized Functionality
The absence of an arch in the inverted design allows for greater tire clearance, enabling riders to tackle varied terrain with ease. While inverted forks may encounter challenges with torsional stiffness from a cycling perspective, Cane Creek asserts that the Invert overcomes this limitation with its shorter travel, mitigating flex in the front end.
Extensive Testing and Validation
Cane Creek underscores its commitment to quality by subjecting the Invert to rigorous testing. This comprehensive testing regimen ensures that the fork meets the brand’s exacting standards for performance, reliability, and durability. With each aspect meticulously evaluated, riders can trust in the Invert’s capability to deliver an exceptional riding experience.
Cane Creek Invert tech specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fork Chassis | Carbon fiber crown and steerer bonded to aluminum upper tubes |
| Steerer Dimensions | 1 â…› to 1.5 inches, compatible with many gravel bikes |
| Integrated Components | Includes integrated crown race, Ancora expander plug, and ZN40 lower headset bearing |
| Headset Standards | Acknowledges wider variety on gravel bikes but currently not planning additional steerer options |
| Offset | Both models feature a 45mm offset, chosen for compatibility and to maintain original geometry |
| Effects on Bike Geometry | Transitioning from a rigid fork will raise the front end by 20mm and slacken the head tube by a degree |
| Maximum System Weight | 250 lb / 113.4 kg |
| Brake Routing | External routing with hose guide to prevent flapping |
| Travel and Weight Specifications | Invert SL: 30mm travel, 990g weight, 425mm axle-to-crown measurement |
| Invert CS: 40mm travel, 1,113g weight, 435mm axle-to-crown measurement | |
| Travel Adjustment | Travel cannot be retroactively changed due to different length air springs |
| Axle and Caliper Compatibility | Designed for 12x100mm thru-axle and flat-mount calipers |
| Disc Brake Rotor Compatibility | Minimum rotor size: 160mm; 180mm rotor can be used with adaptor (part number: BBG0800) |
| Tire Clearance | Compatible with 700c x 50mm tires (measured width with 6mm of clearance on each side) |
| Warranty | Comes with a two-year warranty |
What about servicing? [Servicing Made Simple]
Cane Creek recognizes that many riders feel daunted by suspension servicing, prompting the brand to prioritize ease of maintenance.
Recommendations for Maintenance
To simplify the process, the brand advises a 50-hour ‘splash oil service,’ akin to a lower-leg service, followed by a rebuild every 100 hours of use.
Innovative Seal Design
A notable feature is the seal heads, which utilize an open-ended 12-notch bottom bracket tool fitting, found on select bottom brackets including Race Face Cinch, SRAM DUB BSA, and Cane Creek’s own offerings.
User-Friendly Procedure
Upon unscrewing the seal heads, the servicing procedure involves draining the oil and thoroughly cleaning all components. Each leg requires 5ml of 15wt oil before re-tightening the seal heads, ensuring straightforward maintenance for riders.
