Originally Posted by babysaph
Is it absolutely necessary that I get a rigid fork to tour with? I am using a mtn bike frame and didn't want to change the fork. Also I was told I could not get fenders for my Giant Mtn bike because I have the new style brakes on it. Is that true. I would like to have some fenders.
What Peterpan1 said is correct. You don't have to go with a rigid fork but there are advantages. It is easier to mount a front rack on a rigid fork- and you
want a front rack! It makes handling better. You can get a Surly 1x1 for around $60 just about anywhere (look
here ) or, if you don't have threadless you can get a Tange threaded fork
here (for the threaded one you will need to know the length of your current steer tube). If you bike doesn't have threadless now, I'd consider changing it since adjustment of a threadless headset is much easier especially when you are out on the road.
Changing a fork really isn't that hard either. Park tools is a good place to look for a procedure.
As for fenders, I assume you have V-brakes. This makes installing fenders harder but not impossible. Open the brakes when you are installing the fenders and get the fenders where you what them. The try closing the brakes, If they won't close, use a little sculpture to get them to fit properly. A sharp boxcutter or razor saw (hobby shop) works well. A Dremel works wonders if you have one.