Forks: TLR and TLS...the same?

[ratTLeR]

I may have to go the way of a 2nd hand fork to replace one on my '99 TLR. Outwardly, the TLS forks look the same as the TLR, but I believe thay have different internals. Is there any easily visible marks or numbers on the fork to correctly identify a TLR fork in my search? Thanks to anyone who can help!
(PS: Its an Aussie model, but I'd think that would make no difference in this case)

[Guest]

TLS has softer springs than the TLR...i'd highly recommend not using TLS forks, the TLR ones are bad enough!

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[Guest]

btw,
welcome to the planet

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[ratTLeR]

Thanks for the info and the welcome, crashtd.
I guess my I didn't word my initial query very well.....I'm wanting the information for the very reason that I don't want to end up with a TLS fork either by accident or through the deliberate (or unwitting) efforts of a cycle wrecker or private seller.
BTW, its great to be on board...this a great website!

[SDTLR]

:dunno about the fork differences - I'd guess the TLR forks look bigger/tougher than the TLS forks, but that's always the case :dunno

Welcome to TLP too

[J-Bone]

Where is TLRDoug when we need him?
Welcome!

[Duken4evr]

They may very well be the same with the exception of the softer springs and probably different valving.

If you intend (and you should) to have them revalved, it may not be that "fatal" if you happen to get TLS forks, although the TLR stock springs should be in the ballpark unless you are a really big fat guy who rides fast

Springs cost like $60 if you unwittingly get the wrong forks. Of course it would be most preferable to get the right ones

[Miles B]

From what I read about a week ago, they are very different. Length, springs, valves.

I think the easiest way to tell the difference, is the TLR fork will have adjusters that click, whereas the TLS will not click. Steve will undoubtedly be able to tell you which ones do and don't click, so wait for him.... but don't get a TLS fork.

[Duken4evr]

TLS forks = no clicky

[Steve TLS]

Good one Miles,

Yep TLR click, TLS no click.

Might be no visible difference at all externally. Do a search for posts by Richard TL he took some snaps of the different internals, spring length, spacer length etc.

So now Graham, it's going to be hard to buy sight unseen, click click or no click.

[ratTLeR]

Thanks all!
I'll go with the click/no-click method of identification.
Sounds practically foolproof!

[MotoTiller]

Originally posted by crashtd
btw,
welcome to the planet

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[RichardTL]

Hi Graham
The forks externally do look slightly different, on the outer tube, this is only visible when putting them side by side. Like a tosser I didn't take pics of this whilst I had my (TLS) forks out. SDTLR is right they're slightly beefer on the tube.


The best way is to check if the rebound adjuster has a click in it. If you wish to rebuild your TLR forks using TLS ones you may find very little of the internals interchangeable.

Thanks
Richard