Mountain Biking - I need advice on front schocks!!!!

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Big H
10-20-04, 12:12 AM
I will be purchasing a NEW 2002 Gary Fisher Tassajara. I can get it for a very good price as it is old stock. The bike has a Manitou Six Elite fork with 80mm travel on as standard. The LBS says they can upgrade the shock with a "Ride Kit" to change the travel from 80mm to 100 mm. I read on a website that the travel can be changed with all included with the shock. Are they trying to rip me off??? I weigh 125kg. Will this shock be suitable for my weight or should I get stiffer springs. How do I find out what spring is rated for my weight??? Should I not rather upgrade the shock now to an Air Shock??? What would be my best options. Also what is your opinion on the GF Tassajara.

Thanx in advance and keep those wheels spinning!!!

Big H

Reggie
10-20-04, 08:19 AM
well at 125kg it doesn't matter if you have 100mm or 80mm travel doesn't make much difference, you still bottom out easily. You should really go for stiffer springs, air shock is not recommend for that weight its too risky on air seals, probably blow them in one ride
Dannihilator
10-20-04, 08:21 AM
I'd upgrade the fork without question, afterall the manitou Six stinks, try to find a fork like the Manitou Black, get the correct one it will be coil and you will have adjustable travel.

stapfam
10-20-04, 11:42 AM
At 125kgs you will cause a problem to most forks,but I will agree to stay clear of "air" forks. My riding partner is 110kgs, and we have settled on an old pair of Rockshox Judy XC's. By old I mean 1995, but these are elastomers,and we have the strongest ones possible fitted.He was trying Marzochhi Freeride Dropoffs, (2002 form) with the heaviest duty springs, but felt that they were still too soft for him, and that was when I decided the nearly rigid judy's were worth a try.