97 Kona - replacing suspension fork with rigid

[kvwall]

I snagged a kilueau SE and plan to change to a rigid fork. Would this require a corrected fork to make up for the extra suspension fork length? The fork it's replacing is 440 axle to crown (closer to 420 with sag) and I'm looking at replacement options that include 395, 410, and 440. There's a carver fork that is a replica of the 90s Kona P2 forks and they offer a and 440. I'm leaning toward to 410:
https://www.bikeman.com/CARV-FK410S...MNEunZg5LlPblbL13ZWXThp0KQd5mbrhoCqeQQAvD_BwE

 

[Imlach]

410mm is perfect, I'd go with the Carver or a P2 if you can find one. I generally prefer more snappy handling so for me 440 would be too long on that frame and it'd look oddly proportioned

Welcome to RB

 

[oldave]

I've been considering the same issue with my '97 Kileaua for some time! The SIDs are near enough 440 a2c and I have NOS P2s at 410. The uncut steerer is just what I need to get the upright ride suited to my aging back!
If you go with 410s I'd like to see/read the results?

 

[Imlach]

I much prefer them with a P2 (not my photo)

 

[oldave]

^ Larger than mine, so the P2s should look just as good! Thanks.

 

[Imlach]

^ Larger than mine, so the P2s should look just as good! Thanks.

Yes, the one pictured is around 20"

 

[kvwall]

I've been considering the same issue with my '97 Kileaua for some time! The SIDs are near enough 440 a2c and I have NOS P2s at 410. The uncut steerer is just what I need to get the upright ride suited to my aging back!
If you go with 410s I'd like to see/read the results?
View attachment 811671

I'll follow up with the 410 rigid fork.

My understanding is that the original '97 Kilauea came in dark blue like yours and had a rigid fork. The special was edition released later that year and had suspension and came in royal blue. Did you swap out the original P2 fork for the suspension? I assume the geometry is the same for both frames but I haven't been able to confirm.

 

[oldave]

^ Mine came to me with SIDs. They are actually a "good idea" for my arthritic hands and fingers, but rigids (of the right length!) can look so much better!

 

[Imlach]

^ Mine came to me with SIDs. They are actually a "good idea" for my arthritic hands and fingers, but rigids (of the right length!) can look so much better!

Sure what's fashion if it doesn't hurt?

 

[Lucidone]

Just measured my 97 kilauea P2 - 410mm.