Question about Fork rake

All,

Could anyone tell me the difference in ride handling between a straight fork versus one that was rake ? For example on most Colnago's their forks appear to be rather straight no rake whereas most of all Reynolds Ouzo forks are have the standard 43 rake. What gives ? Are certain bikes designed for no rake ? What happens if you mix and match ?

Thanks,

Ian

If you take another look, there is a rack to these "straight" forks. The amount of rake is determined from the end of the steerer/fork crown.

It may affect the ride, but then you'd have to ask all of the Colnago owners, and they all seem happy with their C-40's

Everything else being equal,it does not even affect the ride.

'Straight' forks are only straight in the legs. Theres an angle at the crown race. This is where the rake comes from. More rake sets the front wheel further forward, longer wheel base more stable but more effort to turn in tight situations....

does that make sense? (I'm really just making it up).

Sheldon Brown, at www.harriscyclery.com has a glossary of bike terms.Check rake and more importantly trail..There will be a test.