New Fork and Disc Brake (or not)?

ega95jch said:

I have a Ridgeback Bullit (2002) and I'm in something of a quandary. I've never been entirely convinced by the need for the suspension fork and seatpost on a bike that's used mainly on streets and well-surfaced trails. On a recent visit to my local bike shop, I was told that the forks (seemingly middling-quality RSTs) need servicing, and this would cost around £40. In all honesty, they do seem a little stiff, but is this a reasonable cost for service? What are the implications in carrying on until they seize or otherwise fail? The guy went on to say that, as I didn't see the need for suspension forks, he could fit a steel replacement, with a disc brake and a new wheel for about £100.

This is tempting for several reasons: firstly, the existing rim is not very good quality (no eyelets), and is quite worn on the braking surfaces; secondly, I think disc brakes are rather nice aesthetically, as well as efficient; thirdly, the deal seems a good alternative to soldiering on with suspension forks that are, let's face it, not going to improve in performance.

Is this a good deal? Or should I just stick with the status quo? Or have a new steel fork, but stick with the existing v-brakes? Would I need to specify a solid axle hub, bearing in mind concerns about disc brakes and quick-release skewers? Would I need a new lever for the disc brake?

Any comments/suggestions/ wisdom gratefully appreciated!

Cheers,
John

Firstly i wouldent repair that fork as it is [censored] and not worth it, Disc brakes will work with your current lever as long as you get a cable opperated brake, however the only advantage is smoother brakeing, The idea that a disc brake can rip the quick release hub out of the fork is hoey, i have never noticed any movement caused buy this, neither have i ever hered of any one haveing the wheel come out. Considering the price youve been givin probably includes a wheel i would say it seems quite reasonable. However a cheaper option would be to just get a fork, and stick with the v brakes. Properly adjusted v brakes work fine for anything other than serious Downhill. I race XC with V brakes, and the only disadvantage i suffer is in very wet muddy conditions grit gets between the pad and rim and makes a grateing noise while brakeing. this does not reduce brakeing preformance, it's just annoying.

Thanks for your advice. I think I'll go for the full upgrade; unfortunately the estimate has crept up to GBP168 from GBP100, as I apparently also need a new stem and headset, and had the temerity to specify forks with a bit of rake in them!

Cheers,
John

Insaneclimber said:

Firstly i wouldent repair that fork as it is [censored] and not worth it, Disc brakes will work with your current lever as long as you get a cable opperated brake, however the only advantage is smoother brakeing, The idea that a disc brake can rip the quick release hub out of the fork is hoey, i have never noticed any movement caused buy this, neither have i ever hered of any one haveing the wheel come out. Considering the price youve been givin probably includes a wheel i would say it seems quite reasonable. However a cheaper option would be to just get a fork, and stick with the v brakes. Properly adjusted v brakes work fine for anything other than serious Downhill. I race XC with V brakes, and the only disadvantage i suffer is in very wet muddy conditions grit gets between the pad and rim and makes a grateing noise while brakeing. this does not reduce brakeing preformance, it's just annoying.