S&M Pitchfork XLT Fork

Product Overview

The S&M Pitchfork XLT is a multi-size fork designed for 18", 20", 22", and 24" wheels, constructed from double-butted tapered 4130 chromoly legs with an integrated race steerer tube. Features one-piece CNC-machined steerer with 6061 aluminum insert, laser-cut dropouts, and 4Q-Baked post-weld heat treatment. Made in the USA for riders running various wheel sizes who need proven strength and modern headset compatibility.

Key Features

• Double-butted tapered legs – Variable wall thickness reduces weight in low-stress areas while maintaining material thickness at critical zones; tapered profile increases stiffness at dropout junction for improved tracking under hard braking and landing impacts
• Integrated race steerer tube – Built-in bearing race eliminates press-on race cups and simplifies headset installation while providing more direct load transfer between fork and frame
• One-piece CNC-machined steerer (4130 chromoly) – Machined from solid bar stock eliminates welded joint at steerer-to-crown junction, the highest stress point on any fork, for maximum fatigue resistance
• Extruded 6061 aluminum steerer tube insert – Internal reinforcement prevents compression and ovalization of steerer tube under stem clamping force and impact loading
• M24 x 1.5 threaded compression – Standard metric threading with 6mm allen slot allows tool-based preload adjustment for precise bearing tension without proprietary compression systems
• Laser-cut dropouts – Precision manufacturing ensures accurate wheel alignment and tight tolerances for 3/8" axle fitment with minimal play
• 4Q-Baked post-weld heat treatment – Controlled heating process after welding relieves internal stresses and increases material hardness for improved strength and crack resistance
• 33mm offset – Moderate rake balances stable straight-line tracking with responsive steering input for technical riding across varied terrain

Technical Specifications

• Legs: Double-butted, tapered, 4130 chromoly
• Dropouts: Laser-cut 3/8" slot
• Steerer Tube: Integrated race, one-piece CNC-machined 4130 chromoly with extruded 6061 steerer tube insert
• Steerer Tube Length: 166mm
• Compression: M24 x 1.5 thread with 6mm allen slot
• Axle to Crown Height:
  • 14" – 242mm
  • 18" – 290.4mm
  • 20" – 315.5mm
  • 22" – 340.9mm
  • 24" – 366mm
• Offset: 33mm
• Weight:
  • 18" – 2.16 lb (0.97 kg)
  • 20" – 2.17 lb (0.98 kg)
  • 22" – 2.25 lb (1.02 kg)
  • 24" – 2.35 lb (1.06 kg)
• Heat Treatment: 4Q-Baked post-weld
• Max Tire Clearance: 2.4" S&M tire

Compatibility and Ideal Use Cases

This fork requires an integrated headset compatible with the fork's built-in race—verify your frame has an integrated head tube before ordering. The 166mm steerer tube length fits most frames but may require cutting for proper fit depending on head tube length and spacer stack. Select the correct wheel size option: 14", 18", 20", 22", or 24" to match your wheel diameter, as each size has specific axle-to-crown height that affects overall geometry and handling. The 3/8" slot dropouts work with traditional 3/8" axles only, not 14mm through-axles. M24 x 1.5 compression threading is standard but verify compatibility with your headset's top cap system. Maximum tire clearance is 2.4" width—larger tires may contact fork legs during compression or turning. Best suited for riders running non-standard 20" wheel sizes who need a proven fork design across cruiser, mini, or mid-size BMX builds. The integrated race design works for street, park, dirt, and racing applications where modern headset systems are preferred over press-on race designs.