Suspension

In theory it should work. The problem is that factories and suppliers keep changing specifications (like steerer, stem, headsets diameters) so don't buy over the internet. Go to a physical store and let them figure it out.

maddad said:

I came here to learn so I will start by asking a question. I have an old Giant Rincon that is about 26 years old. It is in good shape. I would like to have a bike with a suspension, so, would I be crazy to buy a new fork for the front. I may not make much sense to ya'll. I am just getting into cycling. My bike has been in the garage for a looong time now.

IMO, you CAN put a suspension fork on many older Hardtail frames ...

The limitation for YOU will be the size of the steerer since I'm not sure when 1 1/8" became the "standard" for MTBs.

About 10 years ago, I finally put one-and-subsequently-another suspension fork on my early-90s Hardtail.

If your frame uses a fork with a 1" steerer, then if you want a reasonably good fork you need to choose one whose steerer can be replaced ... I'm going to say that Manitou used to have forks whose steerer was clamped into the shoulder.

IMO, a cheap (e.g., RST) suspension fork will approximate putting a pair of pogo sticks on the front of your bike.

You can certainly buy a Hardtail frame for under $100(US) -- sometimes new Hardtail frames can be purchased for that amount, or less ... and, definitely, a used Hardtail frame can be purchased for that amount, or less.