Mountain bike question

[jeepchick97TJ]

I have an old Giant mountain bike that I love. Don't ask me what year it's from or what model, I'm at work and I don't know. Would it be better to just buy a new bike with suspension, or update my Giant with some suspension components. I'm no pro, I just ride for fun, but I'm getting knocked around pretty good on the trails.

[Avid]

New...bikes have changed a lot in the past few years.

Really though, it depends on your budget. If you've got $500+ buy a new one. If you've got <$500 save up or waste some on your current bike.

Don't buy too cheap or you won't like it

[jeepchick97TJ]

thanks guys. I kinda knew that would be the answer, but I really love this bike. Does Giant make a good bike now?

[JKTXJ]

Depending on how old the bike is, you have the issue of steerer tube size. Bikes have had 1", 1.25" and now the generally accepted standard 1.125". You can't just go buy a 1" steerer tube suspension fork, they are hard to come by. In addition, adding a suspension fork changes the geometry of the front end because they are taller. Bikes with suspension design that in from the get go. Go new if you want supsension.

[jeepchick97TJ]

take it easy boys. I do happen to have a couple of good friends who work at a bike shop. I haven't talked to them about it yet, as I'm just thinking out loud (as I often do) on JU. Thanks all for your input.