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I'm riding a 2005 Spec FSR 120, and it's pretty much ideal for the riding I find myself doing...
Unfortunately, my shock has gone, but I found an upgrade for little more than fixing it would cost.
My thought is, I was planning to scope a replacement in the autumn, probably a 2009/2010 plate, and recycle my current bits (possibly replacing forks if I get a tapered steer etc).
But, assuming my frame isn't cracked (No evidence), would it be better to get my frame repainted? I did the bearings last year so it would be pretty much as new. Or is a 7 year old frame just not worth the effort?
What upgrade have you found? Those septunes had annoying dimensions, I haven't seen anything with the same i2i + stroke.
Re the frame - I still ride one of these with no issues, easy enough to find replacement bearings, sensible geometry once you're used to the low bb.
I have the 2007 version and have done the bearings and replaced my Triad shock (similarly shite shock to the Septune), with a 2008 200x50 RP23 turning it into a Stumpjumper FSR 135mm. I dont intend on replacing it for a long time.
Our two frames are similar but not identical but both the shock replacements are discused in typical USA style on mtbr.com.
Thinking long term if you do snap either end, 2nd hand replacements are hardly gunna be scarce. You also have the option of getting a BETD link for your frame to up your travel - those welded links do occassionally snap. Stick with it, a great design.
Impossible to say, but if your first set of bearings did you 6 years, I suspect you're not going to break that frame in a hurry.
I didn't own the frame from new, but it hasn't been abused from the look of it...
I've got a 200x50 shock to replace the 190x47 that was original. Happy with what's going to happen to the geometry...
Looks like it's a £200 refurb rather than a £500 replacement...