carbon fork?

[Sparky]

I am thinking about upgrading to a carbon fork. Are carbon forks supposed to help absorb road vibration or do they just reduce weight? I am more interested in the comfort aspect. I found one at performance bike that was reasonably priced. It is their brand. Any opinions/info on the quality of their components. I can't decide what to do because I hope to buy a bike in a couple of years.

[Bike Goddess]

Hi Sparky- I have a bike I purchased from Performance Bike- a Jamis Quest (2003 model) which has carbon forks. It also has a steel frame as I too wanted a bike that took the road well. My understanding is that carbon forks help with road comfort. However, what kind of frame are you looking at? That also makes a huge difference!

[spazzdog]

Hey all!

My Allez Comp has an aluminum frame with carbon front fork. I know steel is considered more durable, etc, but I find my bike to be incredibly responsive and comfy.

I went from a TREK 1000 (aluminum) that I rode for 11 yrs to the Allez Comp. The difference in ride feel (for me) was like the difference in driving a MGB and driving Ms. Bike Godess' Z3

Or, for you motorcycle babes out there, the difference between a cruiser like a Shadow and a full on sport bike like my old ZX6 Ninja.

spazz (wishing her bike was here 'cause it's nice and sunny)

[Sparky]

I've had my bike about 3 yrs. My frame is aluminum. It is a trek 1200. Seems like a good fit. I have nothing to compare it to as it is my one and only. I noticed that many of the new bikes have carbon forks. I thought I read somewhere that they added more comfort. Thought if that were true I would invest in one. I am thinking that in a couple of years I will be ready for a new bike mine has about 6000 miles on it now. I am trying to decide if the fork is worth it.
Good to hear about performance. I have been happy with clothing purchases but have never bought anything else.