I have the chance to pick up a nice parkpre on the cheap. There's an informative website with some information about these bikes but I don't see the model that I have a shot at. When I check this bike out, what should I test with the Softride stem to see if it's functioning well? I've never owned anything with any sort of suspension so I'm not sure what to do. Also, does anyone have any idea what year this is? The seller mentions the 80's. I'm trying to identify that crankset but the provided picture is a bit blurry and small.

I'm looking to convert this to a single speed, throw some V-brakes on there, give it a new paint job, and have some fun doing single track with it. I'll post updates if I end up getting the bike!