Definition:

Typically of the telescoping design, forks are the combined steering and front suspension units of most motorcycles built after the 1940s. The design has proven to be very popular and reliable. A set of forks generally consists of: legs that contain a spring, to support the weight of the bike, and valves that control oil flow which acts as a damping medium. The lower section of the forks (commonly referred to as stanchions) carry the wheel and brake assemblies.

Later fork designs have their stanchions mounted at the top in the triple clamps, to increase rigidity during braking, with the wheel spindle mounted in the lower fork leg.

Examples: Front forks, without rubber gaiters to protect them, are prone to seal damage.