Is it possible and worth converting a full suspension bicycle into a "No suspension" bike?

Question

I have a very, very heavy full suspension mountain bike that I owned about a decade a go. I had a hybrid bike but it got stolen and I am looking for a cheap way to get back cycling in this lovely sunshine.

Is their much to consider changing the components of the mountain bike? Or would it be a case of just buying a new hybrid because of the sheer cost? OR would it not even be worth it at all because it will never shed much weight?

Answer 1

Get another bike the frame on the full suspension bike is where the weight is.  It has to be very strong to take the hits those bikes are put through.

Answer 2

Hum...

Depending on how heavy your suspension fork is, you can replace it with a rigid fork and save some weight.  (Perhaps 2-3 pounds.)  You'll need to be sure to get a fork that has about the same length as your suspension fork.  Otherwise, you'll effectivly change the geometry of your bike and will wind up riding "nose down."  Many shops have a batch of rigid forks hanging around that were replaced by suspension forks.

Depending on the design of your rear suspension, I doubt you can simply remove the rear shock without being forced to make major alterations of the bike.  Thus, you may not be able to save any weight in the rear end.

Frankly, I am doubtful this is a worthwhile endeavor.  Mountain bikes are generally optimized for ruggedness.  In the old days, weight was only a secondary concern.   Bikes have become lighter as engineering and materials have improved.  A 10 year old bike, though, is missing the entire last decade's advancements in weight reduction technology.

I am with the other respondents who say it's time to get a new bike.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I'm treating this as a serious question. So if your yankin' my chain, shame on you.

No it's not worth the trouble. Your not going to lighten it much and it wouldn't be wise to go though the expense and effort for nothing. Sell it and buy another bike.