realskiers

Hi Liam,

I don't think I would be entertaining this if the fork cost that much, but I have an "in" with a local shop and can get an aftermarket one at a very good price.  Also, I have seen some Magura Durin models going at outlet prices for around $350.  At those kind of prices, plus a new stem and bars, we're talking a reasonable upgrade cost -- probably less than $550 or so.  For that cost, this is worth doing.  As I mentioned, the frame is a keeper, wheels are good, drivetrain is good.  But if the upgrades pushed north of $1000, she would be looking for a new bike, or, as you say, just staying content with what she has.

Thanks for the confirmation on the longer travel / slacker head angle question.  I was watching her riding yesterday, and noticed that she is totally comfortable in virtually all conditions, except downhills.  She is quite cautious there, and doesn't just lay off the brakes and let fly.  I asked if the bike feels too twitchy and unstable when descending, and she couldn't really pin it to that, but will pay attention next ride and report back again.  But climbing (even rough terrain), tight hairpins, rocks, sand, roots, are all no sweat....just a breeze.

A good test might be to have her ride our daughter's bike for a few hours (which is actually a better spec'd and built bike than either of her parents own  )  It has a more slack front end and longer travel fork; same frame size.  It would be interesting to see if she prefers the handling over her own.


PS:  I don't think I will be upgrading the brakes just yet, but will try better quality pads first and see if they perform better.  I have had good luck with Jagwire pads on my own bike, so will try those first.