Assessment: Cane Creek claims to have developed the initial gravel fork, raising questions about this specific type of bicycle component and its performance.
The Cane Creek Invert is making waves in the world of gravel biking, offering a unique suspension solution that promises comfort, confidence, and a smooth ride. This innovative fork comes with benefits such as comfort, confidence, looks, an easily adjustable air spring, and a Climb Switch (lock out feature on the CS version).
One of the standout features of the Invert is its inverted design, which places the suspension components below the crown rather than above. This design choice reportedly enhances stiffness and responsiveness, leading to better handling and rider confidence on mixed surfaces.
While the Invert doesn't include a damper, its suspension is handled entirely by the air spring. This design provides a unique sensation reminiscent of a high-volume tyre without the scary sidewall folding feeling. However, setting up the airspring can be challenging, as it felt a bit too easy to bottom out initially. Adjusting air pressure is crucial for aggressive riding.
The Cane Creek Invert is a suspension gravel fork designed specifically for gravel roads. It delivers a smooth and controlled ride while complementing the dropbar silhouette with a lightweight and visually striking design. The fork has a stealthy flat mount that works with 160mm rotors, or 180 with a +20mm flat mount adaptor.
Specific ATC measurements for different forks have been measured, and the Cane Creek Invert stands out. The ATC measurements of various suspension gravel forks, including the Cane Creek Invert, are all above 420mm, altering bike geometry. This longer ATC required for suspension forks is a significant departure from the rigid fork lengths under 400mm that many gravel bikes still use.
Adding the Invert fork makes the difference in the geometry tangible. Adjusting for the change in geometry requires playing around with the stem and saddle position. The added length up front affects steering considerably, and the changes to the bottom bracket height and position are also noticeable in power output and ride feel.
The Invert comes in at a whopping $1,199.99 retail, and while it might be expensive, it provides a unique riding experience that could be worth the investment for some riders. Cane Creek is currently offering a $250 credit if you send in your current fork in exchange for the Invert.
However, the Invert is not without its limitations. Cable/hose routing issues and lack of fender options are potential drawbacks. The fork's damper-free design may limit its ability to finely tune compression and rebound damping compared to competitors that offer more adjustment options. Additionally, the novel inverted fork concept initially faced doubt from many riders and industry observers; its unusual look might not appeal to traditional gravel riders.
Gravel suspension forks require suspension-corrected geometry to maintain proper bike handling. Users must ensure their bike frames are compatible or designed for suspension use with the Cane Creek Invert fork.
In summary, the Cane Creek Invert stands out by breaking typical fork design rules to gain performance and responsiveness benefits preferred by some gravel riders but may not offer the damping sophistication or universal acceptance of more established gravel suspension forks. Its main appeal is for riders seeking improved control and comfort on demanding gravel terrain with a unique suspension approach.
[1] Gravel Cyclist [2] BikeRadar [3] MTB Cutthroat
- The incorporation of the Cane Creek Invert, with its distinctive inverted design and unique suspension solution, could potentially revolutionize the sports of gravel biking, offering enhanced comfort, confidence, and responsiveness on diverse terrains.
- Gravel suspension forks, such as the Cane Creek Invert, require specific suspension-corrected geometry to ensure proper bike handling, thereby emphasizing the importance of frame compatibility for optimal performance in sports like gravel biking.
