Originally Posted by
FBinNY
Forks are somewhat universal, so you don't need to buy another RST.
The key elements are wheel size, ie. 26" brake type, ie/ V or disc, and the diameter and length of the steerer tube.
So, start by confirming the steerer (top of the fork) diameter, which is probably 1-1/8". You can measure the ID of the stem, and don't have to be precise, since it's either 1", 1-1/8" or 1-1/4" (rare).
Then the length of the tube is critical, though most new forks are sold very long and cut to size by the owner. So, a fork for 26" mtn wheels, set up for V-brakes and the right steerer and you're good to go.
Originally Posted by
dabac
Serial numbers are far less useful than you seem to think.
And if you can’t figure out the spec despite having access to the bike, I don’t think having you replace the fork is such a hot idea.
You need to know how to transfer/install the crown race, how to size and cut a steerer tube, how to install a star nut, how to adjust headset preload.
Also, the hardrock being quite inexpensive to start with, a brand new shock is likely to cost more than the remaining value of the bike.
And buying used forks can be tricky.
It has an 1 1/8” threadless steerer. A search on the fork’s model name/number should give you the travel. Failing that, measure axle-to-crown.
You need to match:
- steerer diameter, for buying used - remaining steerer length
- for rim brakes, intended wheel size
- travel/axle-to-crown
I’d look at the Suntour line-up. Might be something rim braked there.
Thanks guys! I failed to say that I’m about 200 miles from this bike. It’s a bike my son took off to school and now I’m going to bring it back home as he goes off to work.
So I looked at it and the forks are frozen and trashed. I’m not going to spend a bunch of money on a new fork, I would just like to find a good used one or cheaper new one but I need to know the particulars. I’m just going to use it to kick around.
So dabac you say that this bike has a “It has an 1 1/8” threadless steerer.” That’s the kind of info I need, any idea on steerer length? I know it’s a 26 inch. The mechanics of doing it is pretty simple, i’d just like to find and order one so I have it when I get back to the bike.
Please correct me if I’m wrong but it seems like all I need is to get a 26”, travel (I don’t care much), 1 1/8” treadless steerer, V brake? That’s about all I should need to know right? Right now I’m just looking on ebay and the like. Any suggestions of a better place to search?