900aero

I have an older bike from the mid-80s that has all original components including chrome forks that are pretty rusty. Although I may just clean them up, I'm also considering replacing them with something more modern.

To be completely simplistic about it: Are the newer ones going to fit?

operator

Need. More. Information.

DArthurBrown

There are a few different fork sizes. 1 1/8 inch, 1 inch, and 7/8 inch (25.4 mm, 22.2 mm, and 21.1) are the most common diameters of fork steerers. You will almost certainly be able to find one that fits, but depending on how you intend to use the bike and why you are fixing it up, it's almost always more cost effective to sell the old bike and get a new or better used one.

operator

It's highly unlikely it's 1 1/8" on a mid 80's bike. But I do digress - threaded 1"?

900aero

Thanks. I realise that I haven't offered much info yet, am just thinking out -loud. Its an old bike and not my main ride but worth keeping so this is just a small upgrade that I'm considering. I'll look at the thread etc and post back once I know more.

Is the diameter the main thing to consider? Length too I guess?

thnx

operator

Depends on whether or not you plan on switching to threadless as well. If you are keeping it threaded you'll need to know the steerer length + length of threaded section. It is probably much easier to find a threadless fork as you only need to worry about the steerer length. Like I said above, it's most likely 1" threaded.

900aero

Ok, thnx. I'll look into it and let you know.

More Cowbell

You most likely have a 1" threaded fork. Unless you are willing to change your headset, you will have to keep this set up. I just did this modification to an old Trek 613 I had. I kept the headset (an old Tange Levin) and found a 1" threaded carbon fiber fork @ Nashbar of all places. $80 bucks. Its one of the better upgrades I've done to that bike.

Chombi

Another thing to consider is whether to buy one of those straight legged forks instead of the "traditional" curved ended ones. My bikes are all from the mid to late 80's and have curved ended forks. I always wondered how the newer straight legged forks ride. I always assumed that they have a harsher ride because they would flex less, but I could be wrong, because they seem to have angled slightly forward right below the lower bearing race.

Chombi