Best Choice for Conversion? (I have several to choose from.)

[Jim B]

So, I've collected quite a few parts bikes. I'm looking to install the front end off one of them on my '97 KDX220. I have:

'96 KX250
'97 KX250
'00 KX125
'02 KX125

Assuming they're all in similar condition, would one of these be better than the others for doing the conversion? The two most obvious issues would be 1) Which forks would work the best? (maybe the '02, since it's the newest?); 2) Would one of them be easier to install than the others?

I'd rate myself as an intermediate level rider. The bike is trail-ridden only (not planning on racing). I'm about 170 pounds.

Also, I'm planning on installing the entire "front end" (brakes, wheel, forks) and not using any of the KDX front end parts. Is this the easiest way to go?

Any help/advice is much-appreciated!


-Jim

[Indawoods]

02 KX 125... reason being, lighter springs and more up to date.

[scheckaet]

+1

[scheckaet]

you'll still need to press the kdx stem ini the kx clamp.

[Jim B]

02 KX 125... reason being, lighter springs and more up to date.

Any idea if the '02s are different/better than the '00 125 forks? The '02 forks are leaking just a little bit (can't see any leaks from the '00 forks). Maybe now is a good time to learn how to rebuild forks...

[Colorado Mike]

Rebuilding is easy. There are vids on Rocky Mountain that show you how. I recommend changing the bushings too, since I always seem to ding at least one when I do it. it also gives you the chance to soften up the valving for trail riding at the same time.

[Jim B]

I did a little research and realized the '02 forks are 48mm. vs. 46mm. for the '00 forks. Looks like I'll be using the '02 forks.

Mike, thanks for the heads-up on the videos. It doesn't look too complicated to rebuild a set of forks.