What to do?

[TurtleIV]

I am getting back into mountain biking. I have an old Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo from 1996-97. The rock shox on this thing I think is the first generation shock. I love the bike and it is in great shape. I was told however by a lbs that I might as well buy a new bike rather than to get an updated fork. I know they are spendy, but I love my bike. Any suggestions on what type of fork to go after as well as any other upgrades I should consider. Thanks!

Turtle

[Slimpee]

If you have a threaded headset I think there's a Rock Shox Indy for sale on craigslist.

A threaded headset requires a stem that is tightened against the fork steerer column (inside the bike headtube) using a bolt on top. A threadless headset has two "pinch bolts" on the back.

If it's a threadless headset you could probably pick up a cheap Rock Shox Dart or something and be on the road.

Threaded:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/aa/Quill_stem_1.JPG/800px-Quill_stem_1.JPG


Threadless:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/17/Threadless_stem_with_hole_for_front_brake_cable.JP G

Is the fork broken? If it isn't ride it! If it is there is a person who repairs them around here at a place called the Shockspital. I've never used him but i've heard good things:
http://shockspital.com/

Good luck!

[widespot]

I am getting back into mountain biking. I have an old Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo from 1996-97. The rock shox on this thing I think is the first generation shock. I love the bike and it is in great shape. I was told however by a lbs that I might as well buy a new bike rather than to get an updated fork. I know they are spendy, but I love my bike. Any suggestions on what type of fork to go after as well as any other upgrades I should consider. Thanks!

Turtle

If the bike is in otherwise good shape should be able to replace the fork with something else. I would think a '96 Fisher would have a threadless headset which will give you more options. You will need something that will accept v-brakes though. Like Slimpee said a Rhox Shox Dart would be an option (it looks like it has v-brake thingees), I believe you can buy those for around $100-150 plus installation. (other options are out there, shop around) It would be heavier than your current shock, probably, but have more travel. Or you could find something used. I have an early 90s MTN Bike with a Mag 21 on it and the guy at Nokomis Cycle had many options updating it. I'm not sure what shop you went to, but some seem to rather sell new bikes than fix up perfectly good 10 year old bikes that work great and fit. Find a good local shop and get their opinion before spending $1000 on something new. Its tough, old bikes can get expensive to update, but I love the ride of my old steel bike. Let us know what you do.