Changing forks

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by thebulkinator
I have a older schwinn(about 1996-8) that has a solid front fork and I'd like to change it to a suspension fork is it possible? My friends say its not but I'd like to get some better opinions. Thanks a lot. Ben

A long travel fork could raise the front enough to affect handling. If you have a 1" steerer,that will also limit your choices.Otherwisee, no problems. The bike may not be worth the price,depending on the deal you get.

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by thebulkinator
I have a older schwinn(about 1996-8) that has a solid front fork and I'd like to change it to a suspension fork is it possible? My friends say its not but I'd like to get some better opinions. Thanks a lot. Ben

There are several things to consider: steerer tube (previously mentioned), a new stem, and travel of the fork (previously mentioned).

If you have a 1" head tube then you really will have to do some looking around, but you can still put a suspension fork on it. You likely have a threaded stem and fork combo now so regardless of headtube size you will (probably) have to buy a new stem to fit the threadless steerer tube of the fork you get. You will also need a new headset if the above is true. There are threaded 1" suspension forks out there, but they are few and far between (and not lightyears better than rigid forks for the most part). If you do decide to get suspension forks on this current ride then I would suggest getting one with no more than 80mm of travel to avoid the dramatic change in geomety mentioned earlier.

If you are thrifty and patient you could end up with a new front end (of decent ability) for under $250, but you could also easily drop three times that as well and I don't think I would recommend that for your current steed. My wife hates it when I suggest this, but it may be time to consider saving for a new bike(?). Have fun and take care.

K.