Is it hard to replace your fork?
 

I've been debating about upgrading to a carbon fork. I was planning on just holding off and getting another bike, but it looks like that won't be a possibility until next year.

Is it something you can do yourself, or should you have an LBS swap it? I've found some decent prices on the net for 1 1/8" threadless forks, but the LBS prices are pretty high. I like to patronize my LBS whenever possible, but I really don't want to spend $300 on a fork, plus labor.

Why bother putting on a new fork now? If you plan on a new bike next year it will be almost certainly be spec'ed with a carbon fork. Save the $'s and spend it on the new bike instead.

If it is a straight swap, then it won't be too difficult. Other than getting the steerer cut, you should be able to do it yourself. If you are upgrading from a threaded fork to a threadless, then it becomes more difficult and costly. Not only will you need the fork, but a new headset and a stem plus the added labor. If that's the case, then I agree with Ewitz - you should wait.

55/Rad

I plan on keeping this bike as my "daily rider" to train on, and figure the carbon fork will take away some of the road vibrations. Plus like anything else, I like "upgrading" even to a point that I should of bought another bike several hundred $$'s ago... :(

I'm trying to decide between a Trek 2300 or Cannondale R2000 for the next ride...I think I am leaning towards the Cannondale, only because the "made in usa" and because I think it has a bit nicer ride to it. Either way I'm trying to stay around the $2500 mark...but a couple hundred $$ is easier to swing past the wife at this point VS a new bike.

My current fork is an 1 1/8" threadless...so as long as I get the same it should be a direct swap no?

The higher end Treks are made in the US and I would certainly include the 2300 in the "higher end" class when you consider the entire line.

As long as you get a 1 1/8" threadless, it should be an easy swap. good luck.

55/Rad

I'm going to need a fork that has canti bosses...so I'm looking at either a winwood, alpha-q, or wound up. The winwood is more in my price range...but I wonder about the flex aspect...and the chro-moly vs all carbon..ie any creaking?

Just make sure the blade on your saw is sharp before you start cutting the old fork off. :D

WildBill.. I know how you feel.. a couple hunderd is easier to swing past the wife vs. a new bike. I'm saving up for another bike as well.. just hasn't decided which one yet.