[Birchaholic]

Hi everyone,

I have a 2009 CRF230F. The front forks are stock and they compress at the top. I’m not a huge fan of that look. I like the look of the forks that compress at the bottom better. I’m just wondering what the forks that compress at the top are called compared to the ones that compress at the bottom and if anyone has some suggestions for new forks?

I have attached a couple pictures showing the different throes of compression I’m referring to.

Thank you

[JimDirt]

The forks you currently have are called "Conventional" forks , the bottom ones , are called "Inverted" forks , or as some like to call them , Upside Down forks" , with the inverted forks you would need to make sure they are the correct length (same length overall as your old ones) , and you would need to replace the Triple Clamps with the ones that go with the inverted forks (they would be much larger for the opening the tubes go into) , you may or may not have to adapt the steering stem to make them fit , and you might also have to worry about the bump stops , and overall width of the new clamps/triple clamps , so the forks don't hit your tank when turned all the way left/right , your main issue converting would be getting the stem to fit correctly and fit within your fame and match bearings that will fit on the stem as well as within the stem on the frame and the stem overall length so it threads enough or is not too long .... and axle fitment might be a issue as well as the brakes , since your stock front wheel would most likely not accommodate the larger axle the inverted forks use , nor would the brakes be the same on both wheels , so you would most likely have to swap the entire front end , including wheel , brakes , and maybe even handle bars and some or all of the controls

Hope that helped explain some of your concerns ...

[Aussiecrf230]

Right way up forks is what they are called.
I suppose that would make upside down forks the right way up down under.

Seriously a lot to do to change as Jim has already stated.

Is it just the look you don't like or do you want better forks?