Rake (steering head angle)

Rake is the angle between the steering axis (the line through the steering head) and the vertical, measured in degrees. Sport bikes usually have roughly 23–25°, while cruisers and choppers can have much more.

Rake works together with trail, the distance on the ground between where the steering axis meets the road and the centre of the tyre contact patch. Less rake and trail make steering quick and light; more rake and trail add stability but make the bike slower to turn.

Rake changes when the suspension moves: braking compresses the fork and steepens the angle. Changing fork height in the clamps or rear ride height alters rake too, so make such adjustments in small steps and note the original setting.