fork boots

Properly installed boots keep dirt out and make the fork last longer. But you periodically have to clean and lube under the boot usually by cutting and then replacing a tie-wrap. Besides me, who do you know who has a good stock of tie-wraps?

Many people do not maintain their forks at all, so manufacturers probably decided to leave out boots since they increase the cost of the fork which isn't going to be maintained anyway. Besides, an unbooted fork that wears out quickly will need to be replaced sooner...

So if you want a reason to replace your fork sooner, by all means remove the boot!

TD

Shuck 'em; even if you maintain your fork well. The problems occur while riding, not at the first of the ride, so even a boot that's been cleaned under will get dirt under it while riding and that's when it dirt can accumulate and cause problems. If you have a fairly new fork the wipers & seals should do all the work you need. However after each ride you should take a clean soft cloth and wipe the legs down.