Mountain Biking - My brand new used bike

First, Thanks to all who replied to my "Good deal or not" thread.
Well, I ended up buying the used 02' Rockhopper FSR for $500.00 and so far couldn't be happier. The Judy fork, though still lacking, is performing much better since I cranked up the pre-load (still plan on replacing) - the pedal bob is there, but hardly noticeable while actually trail riding - and the bike as a whole is just a ton-o-fun to ride.

Compared to my 15 yr.old Giant ht I've found these differences ....
... Geometry of the Rockhopper is much more aggressive than the Giant. Every steep downhill had to tell myself "Get back, get waaaay back!
... Feels like I'm sprinting on the climbs! (Well, as much as a beer-bellied 43yr. old can)
... The toe clips w/straps that came on it have definitely inspired me to try clipless in the near future.

New riser bar and stem, along with Rhyno Lite/XT disc ready hub wheelset should be here tomorrow. Can't wait to try the riser bar.

All in all, this bike has upped the fun factor to my trail riding ... And, I get the enjoyment of never ending upgrades!

Well I didn't reply to you're other thread butI'm glad you're happy with you're choice!

Sounds like you're having a great time with the new/old ride!

BTW If the fork is bobbing too much you should be able to just get some new springs for it. Getting the new springs will save you some money over buying a new fork.

new fork is a worthwhile upgrade. dont bother with the judy.

beavis,

I have an 03 Rockhopper FSR Comp and recently swapped out wheels, front fork (to a RS Reba) and added in SRAM X.9 triggers/RD. All it can say is WOW what an improvement. The fork was the biggest improvement followed closely by the wheelset. THis week was the first big ride on it (2+ hrs) and everything was better.

The Reba is a very good deal given the price (not cheap but I think close to fox for $200 less) and made some sketchy trail parts easy ... My old Manitou Axel was pretty bad (very flexy).

Was thinking of selling this bike and upgrading but so far am very happy with fork/wheelset upgrade and will keep it for a while.

Berardino

Glad to hear that your happy with your bike! i love fitting new stuff on a bike :)

Just finished installing my new handlebar and stem. The old flat bar and 100mm stem had me feeling a tad cramped, and most notably too much forward weighted. After riding around the yard tonight with the new Easton 120mm/10 degree rise stem and a Sette 1.5" riser bar the cockpit feels much better. I'll know more after my trail ride tomorrow.

baratta930,
The fork definitely needs upgrading - I'll check out the Reba. The Judy is too mushy, especially in any downhill corners. It tends to dive in, throwing me even more forward.

Wheelset - Could you tell me what you upgraded to? My rhyno lites w/disc xt hubs came today also, but I didn't put them on yet. Frankly, I'm having second thoughts about both the rims and disc hubs ( do I really need them? Shouldn't have read the brake thread!)

Wheelset - Could you tell me what you upgraded to? My rhyno lites w/disc xt hubs came today also, but I didn't put them on yet. Frankly, I'm having second thoughts about both the rims and disc hubs ( do I really need them? Shouldn't have read the brake thread!)Disc brakes are a godsend for us heavier riders. Personally I love my Avid Mechanicals and would reccomend them to just about anyone.

Raiyn,
I've got your bike build bookmarked in my favorites and I'm sorta using it as guide for my build!

Besides my new wheelset I also got a set of wtb velociraptor tires. Went ahead and put them on the old Weinmann Zac 19 rims - see how they feel for a few days and then try the rhyno lites.

I'm sure the rhynos make more sense for me, and as for disc brakes, I could probably do without on most of my rides BUT, I'm just 2.5 to 3 hrs. away from Pisgah, N.C. area and definitely plan on making a few trips there this year..... (Thinking out loud while I type).

Thanks for the input.

Beavis

Raiyn,
I've got your bike build bookmarked in my favorites and I'm sorta using it as guide for my build!

I'm honored. If you have any questions of me feel free to ask .

awww, how sweet... Raiyn has an admirer! :p

don't let it go to your head, punk! ;)

awww, how sweet... Raiyn has an admirer! :p

don't let it go to your head, punk! ;)
I'm as shocked as you are.

I'm as shocked as you are.

Well, I can't really blame him. Your FSR is a pretty good buildup and one that won't completely break the bank.

Everyone wants to be like Raiyn