Front suspension forks

[HT281]

I've currently got Suntour XCM forks, which appear to be buggered. I've got them stripped and there's deep corrosion on the preload stem. I also can't seem to adjust the preload as the adjuster goes round clicking, but doesn't appear to alter the preload.

So, I'm in the market for some half decent new forks, but don't know where to start.

Can anyone offer me any advice on what to look for?

I've got 27.5" wheels and post mount caliper with 203mm disc on front.

[richardxjr]

RS Reba's the default upgrade choice, but any air fork will be a massive improvement.

Match travel length to existing (100mm?) to retain geometry. For compatibility you'll need to know whether straight or tapered steerer, and axle type. If buying used, check length of steerer too.

Rigid forks are lighter and cheaper too, worth considering for lighter use.

[HT281]

Thanks very much for your reply.

The standard forks are:

Conventional straight
Steerer length: 210mm
Steerer diameter: 1.1/8

[richardxjr]

Also axle type of your wheel. Probably standard QR (quick release).

To fit, you'll also need a crown race to match your headset. You may be able to carefully remove off the old fork. Ideal time to service or replace the headset bearings too.

[BadgerBenji]

How much travel are we talking 100mm, 140mm? What kind of budget?

[With these feet]

Quick search on here - http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/forks?f=4294945...

What did you want to spend? Its quite crazy how expensive forks can be when buying on their own. I recently blew the seal from a pair of brand new Revelations - they were replaced but it would have been almost half the value of the bike at rrp!

[HT281]

Fantastic response, thank you all

I'm looking to spend roughly half what I paid for the bike 8 months ago, £290. I would ideally like to keep to 120mm travel, but I can't find any 120mm ones that aren't Suntours.

I'm also restricted to the straight steerer 1.1/8" forks. I know *now* that you get more choice (and price!) if you have a tapered steerer.

The forks I have whittled it down to are these. I know they're slightly over my budget, but I'll stretch to £200 if I really have to as the bike is still young.

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/rockshox-recon-...

I can't find any half-decent forks that are 1 1/8", straight steerer for 9mm QR axle that have more than 100mm travel, unless I replace my crappy Suntour XCM's for the same and be in the same position again later this year.

I think unless anyone has any other suggestions or objections I have to get the Rock Shox.

Does anyone know what the implications are of going from a 120mm travel fork to a 100? Will it just be a risk of bottoming out on rough rides, or will it affect the geometry or handling?

Edited by HT281 on Monday 4th January 18:57

[richardxjr]

Going 120 to 100mm will steepen head angle by 1 degree, not the end of the world for what appears like an entry level sort of bike (going on what it cost). They'll only bottom out if you've not enough air in*
They'll still work loads better than a noodly 120 XCM. (Which I bet you never got near 120 travel out of)

Those Recon Air are good for the price, £130. Had/still got a pair myself. Crown lockout is better than the messier poploc imho, cheaper too.

*If the fork doesn't come with a shock pump you'll need to buy one too. Set initially PSI to match your weight in kg, then set sag appropriately.

ETA One of the reviews suggests the travel can be extended to 120mm internally. I've heard this about non-OE models so it could well be possible.

Edited by richardxjr on Monday 4th January 19:13

[With these feet]

Lots of Rockshox can be adjusted using spacers to the correct height. Not a difficult job per se, but you need to be confident removing the fork legs and fitting a spacer. If you have a friendly bike shop they might be able to help.

TBH if you gave it a little more sag, it will hardly make a difference.