How to buy a suspension fork for a new mountain bike Hardtail A year ago I bought an entry level hardtail mountain bike. At the time I did not spend much money and I did not want bad quality. So I buy a bike that had a good framework and basic components.
After driving for a year I decided that I want to improve comfort and control of my bike on the track. That's why I decided to upgrade my front suspension fork on my hardtail mountain bike .
My initial research concluded that there are many different brands, types and sizes of forks on the market so I knew I recognized I needed help. After all, suspension forks are expensive and I do not want to lose my money.
After talking to different rides, employees at a few bike shops, reading the article and view online questions I put up a couple of bullet points to consider when buying a front suspension fork.
Determine if your bike is the geometry of supporting a suspension fork. If this is the correct geometry to try to determine the maximum height range that can accommodate. I almost bought a fork with 160mm of travel, but the salesman convinced me not to buy it because he thought that my bike did not have the correct geometry. After verification with the plant determined that I was correct.
Consider your driving style. Are you a cross-country, downhill or dirt jump rider. Make sure to buy a fork suites your style of riding. This will help you avoid buying more fork then you need.
Determine your budget and stick to it. Suspension forks can vary in price and can be very expensive. However, if you ride often spend a bit more about a range could be justified.
Determine the size of the head tube bike. The tube size may limit your selections. Is this your steerer 1 inch or 1 1 / 8 inch, etc.?
Consider buying a suspension fork that is adjustable. Some forks are adjustable to the head and some have settings that block pop up on the handlebars. The adjustment function can accommodate different riding areas.
Determine if you need to buy new parts to install your new fork. Do you need a new headset, stem, or the brakes?
Consider the cost of installing a new fork. If you plan to install the fork, you should press a bearing and potentially reduce the bathtub of the fork. This could lead to additional tools and time you want to weigh your options.
See what your friends are riding and ask them their opinion on the brand, and options. Ask them if you can ride their bikes to test their range.
Would you buy new or used? Some riders buy bikes great, just update and never use the original parts. You can find new or almost new parts on bike Servant which lists bike ads containing bikes for sale , parts and bicycle races.
Keep in mind the above list will help you get started in your decision process and there are several factors to consider when you explore your options.
The tips listed above, we hope to help you narrow your choices before you buy a new fork. Good luck and see you on the track.
Posted on March 16, 2010.
