subject: re: re: re: Suspension fork for '93 Mountain

comments:
: : : : I noticed that the headtube angle is decreased to 69 : : : degrees when using a suspension fork with 2.5" of : : : travel on my 93 Mountain. The steering is slow compared : : : to a Stumpjumper FS. Was this Merlin model designed : : : with a lower-travel fork in mind? The geometry on the : : : manual is speced with a Ritchey rigid fork but "will : : : accommodate suspension forks". If so, what is the : : : proper fork travel (or fork length?) for good steering? : : : What susp. fork is everyone using on your pre '95 (1" : : : headtube) Mountains? : : I have used a Mag 21 for three years and never was very happy with the bike on single track. : : I have recently put on an Alsop suspension stem with a Richey rigid fork and the : : bike is quick and incredibly responsive. I ride in the Sierra's and follow the snow : : line all year round. The bike works well in most riding situations. However, when : : it gets rocky and rough (cabbage size or better) I take out my full suspension bike. I have : : looked high and low and even asked Merlin for help : : finding a suspension fork that did not adversly : : affect quick handling. None exist. Proflex forks : : affect geometry the least and work well. It comes down to personal : : preference, riding terrain and style. : : Good luck, Mike : I agree about the Proflex. I guess you mean Girvin. I've used a Vector 2 for a couple of years with the Noleen upgrade on my 93 and the steering is Zenlike, aperfect compliment to the finest hardtail ever produced.