GA Kilo Suspension fork on Raven?

[bokes]

I'm thinking of installing this fork on a Sterling for on/off road touring.



I know the typical arguments against touring with a suspension fork...
1. It adds weight
2. Robs the rider's energy when it bobs
3. It's one more thing that can break down.

But this design is much lighter than the standard suspension fork.
It has a lockout so it acts like a rigid fork when you don't need suspension.
It looks quite robust to me, and the suspension component can be replaced if it fails. Also It gets great reviews in Germany.
It also can be ordered with carrier and mudguard mounts.

Do you think it would be a good choice for touring? thanks in advance

[jawj]

Hi Bokes,
They look like some funky forks! If you can really load them up with racks they could be brilliant.
There are just a few of important things to find out before going for it:

1) What is the crown-dropout distance and is that length ok to use with the Stirling frame?
2) Just how easy are spares to come by and how easy is the fork to service?
3) Where are you planning on going with it? I can imagine such a bizarre looking fork might attract unwelcome attention... but then it might be a good conversation piece too!

I like the fact that it uses an external shock which, as you mentioned, could be easily replaced without having to take apart the internals of a regular suspension fork.

Do you know if it can take a disc brake?

(Sneaky question, Bokes: have you got any additional info on the Stirling? I'm DYING whilst waiting for pictures to be released! If you've been in touch with Thorn about it, I'd love to hear the news!)