MTB headset and ceased forks

[HorTs]

I went to use my MTB the other day after many, many months and the forks have ceased stiff and the steering wants to stay pointing straight - it doesn't turn easily.

The forks are some crappy old suspension model which need replacing anyway so I won't try and fix them.

The headset I guess needs replacing, how do I find what headset I need and what specific tools are required?

It's a Giant Terrago FS1 2003 I think if that helps.

 

[Cycleops]

You will need some headset spanners and an Allen key to release the bars etc. Might be as well to let your LBS do it particularly as you will need to source a new front fork.

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

Given it is a 2003 model chance is it has a standard 1 1/8" aheadset. You can follow this to try servicing it.

If this is the spec it has Suntour forks - they are pretty poor/notorious. However you can usually loosen it after dripping oil between seals and stanchions and wait a little before pumping it. If you open it up chance is it is a rust bucket in there, and generally not worth the hassle.

Imho any fork replacement, unless you replace it with similar "quality", is going to cost you more than what the bike is worth, especially if you don't diy. If I were you I would either do the minimum to get it going, or diy as a learning experience/hobby, or sell and replace.