[shackleton47]

thoughts/experiences?
scott

 

[shackleton47]

Thru....oops.

 

[muzzanic]

It depends on the bike, Some are flex & need a Thru axle & some are stiff & the thru axle version isn't that much stiffer.

But If you can then go T/A

 

[oaklandish]

T/A is always going to be stiffer in any given fork. It is also a little heavier. I bet you would see the biggest difference on a 32mm fork, but it should be specced on every build if possible.

The weight savings of a quick release are not worth the compromised handling; this is especially true on the bigger wheel bikes. For me it made a much bigger difference than a tapered steerer.

 

[zephxiii]

I converted my standard QR up front to through axle with DT Swiss RWS Skewer and Stan's hub thru axle end caps and it is better/stiffer indeed. I am wanting to convert the rear as well.

 

[kjlued]

If buying a new bike, a thru axle would be a non negotiable.
So would a tapered head tube.

They have both have added benefits of stiffness and pretty much have become industry standard which makes it easier to upgrade.