Originally Posted by
staehpj1
Sounds like good advice given the OPs stated parameters.
A lot depends on what the rider wants, on the terrain to be ridden, load carried, and the distances to be ridden (probably both daily and total tour length). I hope the OP finds their sweet spot with their bike. I suspect it may be with a rigid fork, but maybe not.
I'm betting he's going to get another suspension fork, and that's fine!
Ironically, I've found my upright bars on my dolled up schwinn to be the best for absorbing gravel, and washboard. They work better than the specialized suspension stems. Just showing for info. Top of the mountain with a bunch of fireroads to get there. As pictured, the bike was heavy as was, and would need more weight reduction for longer distances. Gratuitous Pic from last weekend.
