Time to change forks - best option?

dt7

Hi everyone

I have a Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc 2010, which whilst not the best bike in the world, i have enjoyed riding for the last 2 years. I have made improvements along the way, but i am now considering a changing the original fork (SR Suntour SF10-XCT-V2D-MLO, 80mm - i think).

Reducing weight and improving handling are the main reasons for changing. I mainly ride trail centres and xc, no large really large stuff for me at the mo.

I have noticed that many in the same position have changed to a Rockshox Recon TK Silver or Reba and have noticed several good deals around, but i have also seen some Marzocchi Marathon R and LR forks.

http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/produ ... 2012_Forks

http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/produ ... 2012_Forks

The Marzocchi forks are a little more expensive than the Recon TK Silver, but i am unsure if they are worth the extra money or even if they will be compatable with the bike.

I would be grateful if someone more knowledgeable could offer any advice or thoughts.

Thanks in advance

Adotparker

Marzocchi make decent long legs for down hill and really grizzly terrain......... if your after a quick blast....... XC to meduim grizzle go with the Rock Shox ...... reliabilty....... and proven technology is far greater..... in my opinion.......

Adotparker

oh and be sure, to buy the right steerer....... wether it be tapered, 1.5, 1 1/8........ i imagine it will be a straight 1 1/8 steerer, as its an oldish bike and a spesh :S

supersonic

Marzocchis new forks are excellent - the Marathon R and LR are great buys, work better than base Rockshox.

specialeyes

@ supersonic. I think It's time for a " New forks for hardrock sport " sticky!

felix.london

Adotparker wrote:

as its an oldish bike and a spesh :S

:shock: - that must make my '06 Rockhopper an antique!

rockmonkeysc

They look like they could be ideal for my 455ss. How do they compare to similar priced Recon's?

chez_m356

Adotparker wrote:

oh and be sure, to buy the right steerer....... wether it be tapered, 1.5, 1 1/8........ i imagine it will be a straight 1 1/8 steerer, as its an oldish bike and a spesh :S

the same as a 2010 crush or this years G bikes then

dt7

Thanks for replies and suggestions.

Supersonic - i feel inclined to go with you on this one. Am sure that the Rockshox offer brilliant value, but the unsightly v brake mounts put me off a little, and am sure that the Marzocchi Marathons will do me proud.

Am pretty sure that "on an old bike" like mine the steerer is indeed a straight 1 1/8th, anyone confirm this?

Are 9mm axles standard on the Hardrock?

Cheers

chez_m356

dt7 wrote:

Thanks for replies and suggestions.
Am pretty sure that "on an old bike" like mine the steerer is indeed a straight 1 1/8th, anyone confirm this?

Are 9mm axles standard on the Hardrock?

Cheers

yes and yes

Adotparker

chez_m356 wrote:

Adotparker wrote:

oh and be sure, to buy the right steerer....... wether it be tapered, 1.5, 1 1/8........ i imagine it will be a straight 1 1/8 steerer, as its an oldish bike and a spesh :S

the same as a 2010 crush or this years G bikes then

I wouldn't know about the 2010 Crush or G series.... however I know someone selling the older 2010 crush frame, might make a good work bike i guess :S

Adotparker

felix.london wrote:

Adotparker wrote:

as its an oldish bike and a spesh :S

:shock: - that must make my '06 Rockhopper an antique!

Surely you agree how quickly technology moves on........ and has moved on, in the last couple of years :S