Fork locked up, and RM250 interchangeability question

[tracetrimble]

I knew the forks on my 87 RM250 were going to need a rebuild soon because I was collecting some dirt around the seals, but yesterday was a surprise.

We've been riding a super technical trail, and I was about a mile or so from the end when my front suspension totally locked up. They were stuck at about 2/3 compressed, and had no movement at all. I rode slowly the rest of the way out. I pulled them off the bike when I got it home, and one side is OK but the other is siezed.

My biggest question is what to do? What are the chances of these being salvageable? I'm guessing it's probably the bushings, and if so the chrome rod is probably trashed?

Should I just start looking for a good used set? Anyone know if any inverted forks will bolt up?

Thanks.

 

[Pete Payne]

The tube that is seized up is probably bent.

 

[tracetrimble]

I bet you're right about it being bent. That makes perfect sense. I didn't notice it being sprung, but will check.

Anyone know of some front ends that are interchangeable with an 87 RM250?

Thanks.