Im a roadie and a mtn bike newb... and im about to snag a "like new" 02 Giant NR3 for 900 bucks without pedals (v brakes). Pretty good deal? Ive read great things about this specific bike...such as it is the same frame as the NR1 with lower components...the rear suspension is good (rock shocks SID i think)...good xc geometry...etc.

Ive also read that the front shocks on this bike arent that great...and I will probably be upgrading them along w/ some components. I think they are the rock shocks "judy"?

Anyway...since there are apparently SO MANY front fork upgrade options (more than I ever imagined!), I figure ill ask the obvious question...whats a good bang for the buck fork that will compliment a XC bike? Id like it to be "bomb proof" if possible.

Any other tips? Thanks!

-a newb