Ride quality of 1989 Diamondback Axis/Apex straight fork?

[frantik]

Hey Retrobikers.. newbie to this forum but a big 80s Diamondback / Centurion fan here..

I'm interested in picking up a 1989 diamondback Apex.. it's got one of those super straight forks though... I'm thinking it might end up rattling my fillings out.

I know the Axis and the Apex both had these style forks.. has anybody ridden these bikes and can make a comment on the ride quality? The fact they were only used for one year kinda says something to me

attached is an example of what i'm talking about

 

[Loki]

Fork tubing diameter and thickness will be more of a factor than straight or curved as well as your weight for fork ride characteristics . Stiffness can also be a benefit for steering accuracy and braking efficiency. If your worried about ride a fatter tire with lower pressure will make more difference than fork bend. Being it's the fork you should have no clearance issues if you need a fatter tire. That fork is pretty narrow near the ends, it is going to flex just fine IMO.

 

[marky2484]

What he said.

Had one, rides fine, tyre size, pressure, much more important for harshness / road buzz.

Buy, enjoy. Much underrated, and usually underpriced bikes.

 

[Rampage]

I have an '89 Axis its in my Sig.
I got round Llandegla ok on it, although I seen to remember it was a bit harsh. But I usually ride Pace RC31's which really flexy.

 

[Rampage]

I have an '89 Axis its in my Sig.
I got round Llandegla ok on it, although I seen to remember it was a bit harsh. But I usually ride Pace RC31's which really flexy.

 

[mikee]

stick a flexstem on,period and practical

 

[frantik]

I have an '89 Axis its in my Sig.
I got round Llandegla ok on it, although I seen to remember it was a bit harsh. But I usually ride Pace RC31's which really flexy.

man i love that Axis.. it's the same paint job as my 1989 Centurion Ironman. can't believe you picked it up for only 5 pounds!

I was thinking the ride would be kinda harsh with those forks. I have a mid-80s Apex with a curved fork with lots of rake running on fat tires.. I'm obviously a fan of a cushy ride

 

[Rampage]

Have you got a picture of the Apex?

 

[frantik]

Have you got a picture of the Apex?

sure I got the frame with crankset, saddle and seatpost, everything else is from the parts bin

 

[T'boo Ted]

I had an 89 apex (with th esmoky paint job) with the straight fork, it tapers down and I always found it to give a nice ride, better than my mates bikes, always attributed it to the fork.

Also I guess there are more variable available, but I put a flex stem on mine and I don't know what angles reach there was available, but mine totally wrecked the handling... worst thing I ever did to a bike.