Upgrading forks

ref^

Hi,

I have a 2007 Marin Northside trail (it was actually reviewed by BR so the specs are here http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/ ... rail-8536/)

I have done probably 1000kms on it by now, mostly cross country but a lot of road too.

But it has a pathetically bad Marzocchi MZ comp fork. It tops out horribly (even after breaking) and has only 1 adjustment (preload, does almost nothing) and flexes quite a lot, and rattles over small bumps. I have a few questions:

- It seems the new revolution is going to be tapered steerers, my bike will only fit a 1 1/8" steerer. Would it be worth buying a new bike instead? Since there are a few other things that are going to need replacing soon, rear gear mech, discs, tyres (and front hub for a new fork). Is the frame on this bike worth upgrading? I think it's the same frame they use on the more expensive model though.
- I will look for a 15/20mm bolt through axel (which will result in needing a new hub). However, are these targets for thieves? If I ever take my bike out, I always lock both wheels but it seems one of these could easily be removed.
- I was looking to buy second hand. But it seems it's hard to find a second hand fork with a 24cm or greater steerer length (which is what mine is at the moment). The frame can take up to 140mm, if you increase the travel, can you do with a shorter steerer length?

Thanks

cooldad

Just get a 1 1/8 steerer fork, RS Recon would be good and reasonable.

The steerer needs to be long enough - think about it - it needs to clear the headtube, headset and stem.

rockmonkeysc

Rockshox Rebas would be more suitable and avaliable for around £250 from Merlin Cycles with various steerer and axle options.

cooldad

At twice the price of a basic Recon coil, yes. But at £130 even they would be a massive improvement over the MZs.

ref^

Thanks for the replies.

What about travel? These recons looks nice but are only 100mm travel, and the MZ comps on my bike at the moment are 120mm. Will 100mm change the riding height it will it not make much of a difference?

cooldad

120mm would be better, at the same sort of budget I'd look at Suntour Epicons.

The Rookie

I agree, Epicons are decent forks and cheaper than an equivalent quality RS product.

On the other hand look for a good used pair, all the forks in my family have been bought used and have all given solid reliable service.