A few fork(ing) questions
I promise I've done the requiste archives searches for answers to my questions. Lots of good info there, but I'd still like to pick this group's collective brain about a couple of specific questions.
I'm 6'3", 193 lbs (88 Kg). I ride an old (late 80s) lugged-steel, 61cm c-t-t Paramount, with new Velocity wheels. Love the bike, but I'd like to switch out the steel fork with an Ouzo Pro. Current fork has a 1" steerer and (best I can measure) 50mm of rake. So my question is twofold:
1. Given my weight and the length of my bike's head tube, does anyone foresee trouble with an all-carbon, 1-inch diameter fork steerer? I keep reading how so many lightweight parts really aren't designed for riders weighing more than 165 pounds . . .
2. It's tough finding Ouzos (on ebay) with 50mm of rake. How much practical difference will there likely be in handling if I went with rake of, say, 45mm? I love how the bike handles, so I realize it's in my best interest to maintain the current trail as closely as possible. But will this half-centimeter reduction in rake really have any detectable consequences?
Thanks one and all in advance!
--Doug