Cane Creek has introduced the second-generation of its Helm fork.
Originally launched in 2017, the Helm has targeted trail and enduro bike riders who desired a mountain bike fork capable of internal travel adjustment, varying between 130- to 170mm of suspension stroke. With this updated version, Cane Creek has retained the fork’s adjustability whilst reducing friction.
Seeking improved compression performance, Cane Creek’s engineers have redesigned the Helm’s damper.
Both the compression and mid-valve circuits now feature revised oil flow channelling, to provide better support for the Helm’s mid-stroke, when the terrain gets really technical.
Aiding the superior damper fluid flow dynamics, is a reduced friction index, courtesy fo SKF oil seals.
Beyond the improved compression features, the Helm has also gained a reshaped air piston without sacrificing the novelty of having independently adjustable positive and negative air chambers.
One fork, with all the travel
Like the first-generation Helm, this updated version rolls either 27.5- or 29-inch wheels. If you ride 27.5-inch wheels, travel ranges from 130- to 170mm, while 29er Helms have slightly less suspension stroke, topping out at 160mm.
For those riders who are keen tinkerers, the Helm offers ten positions of high- and low-speed rebound, whilst low-speed compression tallies 17 adjustment points.
Steering geometry is controlled by a 44mm offset for the 27.5-inch Helm, and Cane Creek’s 29er version can be had with either a 51- or 44mm offset, depending on frame geometry and rider preference.
Home mechanics are assisted in the task of travel adjusting their Helms, thanks to a considered design that doesn’t requiring propriety tools. The updated version makes internal travel adjustment even easier, due to a threadless seal head.
Cane Creek is pricing both its 27.5-inch and 29er second-generation Helms at $899. Weight depends on whether you opt for an air-sprung version (2080g) or coil (2,340g).
For those mountain bikers who believe in particularly bold colourways, Cane Creek is also producing a very limited run of 50 rather bright Helms, with pink lowers, priced at $950.
