New to MTB, looking for a better fork

nuke
Posts
11
Joined
4/8/2015
Location
NC US
Edited Date/Time 4/9/2015 3:17pm
Hello all,

I have been riding and racing dirt bikes for about 20yrs, but have purchased my first mountain bike just last week. It is a Rockhopper 29 sport. I am riding it to stay fit and have fun.

I have a problem with the fork after just 10 miles of riding. While holding the front brake, I can rock the bike back and forth and feel lots of play between the upper and lower tubes. I noticed it the first day, but it seems to have gotten worse in the short time I have put on it. I haven't been jumping anything or crashed hard either. The fork is a Suntour XCM.

I would like to replace the fork with something a little beefier that offers a pusher ride without draining my bank account. I would like to buy new since my bike is brand new, but I'm not opposed to a used fork in top condition. If its possible to stay at or under $250 I would be happy. What would you guys recommend?

Thanks for reading and sorry for the long post.
|
sspomer
Posts
4886
Joined
6/26/2009
Location
Boise, ID US
Fantasy
66th
4/9/2015 10:21am
under $250 is going to be tough for a quality fork that will last. used is the way to go. ebay or MTBR.com classifieds may be your best bet, but i'd imagine you'll be in the $300-400 range for anything worth buying.

if you bought the bike at a specialized dealer, take it in and have them check it out.
nuke
Posts
11
Joined
4/8/2015
Location
NC US
4/9/2015 3:05pm
I dropped the bike off at the shop I purchased it from today. The tech told me there is not much he can do except replace the bushings, but no guarantee the fork will be any tighter after the work is performed.

I ordered a Rockshox XC32 TK Solo Air. What do you guys have to say about this fork? I'm positive it will perform better than what I had. I'm not an advanced rider, but when the trail allows I will push my limits.

Any input is appreciated.
nuke
Posts
11
Joined
4/8/2015
Location
NC US
4/9/2015 3:17pm
Oh, and thanks for the reply sspomer.

Post a reply to: New to MTB, looking for a better fork

The Latest