bfloyd

I posted this in the mtb forum but perhaps it would be better here. I am converting to a 96er using my GT Zum mtb and was wondering if I should use a 26in. rigid fork with the 700c wheel (with disk brake) or if I would need to use a 700c rigid fork. I would be using a cross wheel and tire (700 x 32) so the width would not be too much of an issue, pending it will fit in the 26in. rigid fork (I tried and it fit into the stock 26in. 50mm suspension fork but I think that the suspension fork has more width clearance?). I would think that if possible I should try to keep the front end as low and as close to original geometry as possible? Thanks.

Retro Grouch 

Can't say for sure about your particular fork and tire combination but, when I built my fixed gear, I used 700 X 23 wheels and tires with a 26" fork. Standard drop caliper brake works fine for me and I have sufficient clearance for some larger tires if I choose.

bfloyd

Thanks for the reply.

seely

I would use a Surly 1x1 26" fork with a 29" wheel. Should be no clearance issues since it is designed to clear a 3" tire. You will have to use a disc brake, but no problem since the 1x1 fork has a disc option. The 29er forks are significantly longer than a 26" wheel fork. The ZUM, as I recall, is pre-suspension correction or designed around short travel forks. Adding a longer fork + a taller wheel will make the bike handle horribly in my experience.

bfloyd

Thanks, yes the fork is a 50mm, short travel. Though isn't the suspension mtb fork longer than a 700c rigid fork?