I have good results with giving the seals a bit of lubrication! In my opinion friction is a big enemy when it comes to suspension. Have you ever ridden a bike with no/little friction/seal-drag, you will never ride anything with more friction again.
I also find the seals to last longer when given proper lubrication. The fork also builds up less air when you keep the seals lubed. Especially when riding in very hot weather.
Here’s my advice based on my experiences:
*It’s better to leave the dust-seals alone. No use to pry them open and clean unless U have ridden under very muddy conditions.
*Always add a tiny bit of seal-grease on the crome/steel-tubes, just below the dustseal after U have washed the bike and wiped off the fork legs. The bike cleaner dries out the legs. Apply just a TINY bit. Too much will attract dirt.
-Make sure everything is clean/dry before applying.
- Use a quite “wet/fluid” grease. Too “thick” grease will dry on the legs and make things worse.
*Always bring a rag and wipe off the forks when taking a brake. Dirt and dust that has dried on the forks is the main reason why seals start leaking. You can never get the legs clean enough ;)
Do a test yourself next time you open your forks. Loosen the top nut and let the outer tube slide down. Usually it won’t slide down by it self (unless the seals a leaking or u have a good fork). Try to apply a bit of lubrication and feel the difference (sometimes u have to apply grease several times B4 it slides down by itself, because the seals are so dry).
:thumb: