is there an advantage to straight forks on road bikes vs the traditional curved style or is it just a fashion thing?

They look far better, they usually have the same rake just straightened out. Probably stiffer for it.

May I suggest you try asking a tarmac forum

No harm done

Straight forks work just like curved ones, don’t worry about it.

they will be much harsher – curved and tapered ones flex a bit, straight ones not so much

enhft. You are getting very boring.

they will be much harsher

Nah, you won’t really notice any difference. I’ve got straight forks on my cross bike and it’s really no harsher than one with curves.

they will be much harsher

Nah, you won’t really notice any difference. I’ve got straight forks on my cross bike and it’s really no harsher than one with curves.

It really does depend on what material it is, A straight carbon fork will be more compliant than a curved Alloy one, BUT, Carbon straight Vs Carbon Curved or Steel Straight Vs Steel Curved, Then the Curved ones will always win due to the curve both reducing the amount of “buzz” and also flexing to add a degree of suspension.

Thirty years ago’ish they were considered a sprinters forks. I still refer to any straight road fork as ‘Power forks’.

I’ve gone form Carbon curved to Carbon straight … currently using Easton EA90 SL straight forks – not quite as comfy as the curved ones of old – though they weren’t eastons. However, they feel much stiffer and corner much better.

enfht – Member

May I suggest you try asking a tarmac forum

No harm done

?