Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

steeel fawrk

noun

A type of bicycle fork made of steel.

Example usage: 'I just got a new bike with a steel fork!'

Most used in: Areas where steel forks are popularly used.

Most used by: Cyclists who prefer the sturdiness of steel forks.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 3/10

Also see: Steel Fork, Steel Rigid Fork, Steel Rigid Bicycle Fork, Steel Bicycle Fork,

.

What is a Steel Fork?

A steel fork is a type of bicycle fork typically found on road bikes, touring bikes, and cyclocross bikes. It is made from steel, usually chromoly, which is a strong and lightweight steel alloy. Steel is a popular material for bicycle forks due to its strength, durability, and relatively low cost compared to other materials such as aluminum or carbon.

Steel forks are usually heavier than aluminum or carbon forks, but they are also more durable. This makes them a good choice for touring bikes and cyclocross bikes, where strength and durability are important. Steel forks can also be used on road bikes, but they are usually not as light or as stiff as aluminum or carbon forks.

Steel forks are also popular in the fixed gear scene. Fixed gear bikes are often built with steel forks because of their strength and durability. Steel forks can be bent, but they are less likely to crack or break than aluminum or carbon forks.

Overall, steel forks provide a strong and durable option for cyclists who need a reliable fork for their bike. Steel forks are not as light as aluminum or carbon forks, but they are usually more affordable and can be used on a variety of bikes.

.

The Origin of the Term 'Steel Fork' in Cycling

The term “steel fork” is a colloquialism for a type of bicycle fork used in the sport of cycling. The steel fork was first introduced in the late 19th century and was popularized in Europe, specifically in the Netherlands, France, and Germany. The steel fork was designed to be more durable and lighter than the traditional wooden forks that were used on bicycles at the time.

The steel fork was made out of steel tubing, which was a new material for bicycle frames and components at the time. This tubing allowed for the creation of lighter, yet more durable forks than those made from wood. Additionally, the steel fork allowed for the use of more complex designs which enabled cyclists to customize their ride to their own needs.

The first steel forks were produced in the early 1900s and quickly gained popularity among cyclists. Today, steel forks remain a popular choice for cyclists due to their lightweight and durable design. The term “steel fork” is still used today to refer to any type of steel bicycle fork.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER