Too lazy to get the headset redone, I found the same WTB Momentum Comp ST I put on the frame in 2005 and kept the races in place using new bearings. I suspect that is a no-no.
The last item was a new Michelin XTC Extreme 2.0 tire, to match the rear. It doesn't, again a 5 year delta will do that, but its close enough, should be more reliable than the 12-13 year old Green Silica Michelin of the old wheel.
Took it for a spin in the dark of midnight, in the rain. Feels like 1/2 a new bike,
I notice the front is raised significantly, the travel is huge and super adjustable, the new tire is noisy, and the brake modulates nicely/fine with the rear V-Brake.
Bunny hopping damped severly, have to find some curbs to hit with this fork.
Thinking about all this, I wonder if I tightened the stem to the steerer enough, better leave a note for myself in case I do ride in the sloppy hills tomorrow am.
Careful measurement showed I only gained a bit over 40 mm of height with the new shock. Hence the new tire and plush travel might be a bigger change.
ReplyDeleteFlipping the handlebar returned 20+mm, and going with a flatter bar (got a DH riser on it now) would flatten too. Adjusting seat angle and rotation also helped.
Time to go hit some curbs - nice!