DesertConvert

If I'm lucky I'll get R2.50 for the dog :-( Maybe I'll just swap the systems around...

I currently have hydraulics on a Silverback Phoenix I recently bought, and they are a pleasure. Looking to buy a Bianchi Mutt for a good price (I think) which comes with mech. discs. So I'll notice a difference in performance, but it's probably something I can live with until I've saved enough to upgrade to hydraulic discs.

OK, so I know that disc brakes are the better option for mountain bikes (this also seems to be a topic of debate), but how much of a difference is there between hydraulic & mechanical discs...performance wise?

Hmmm...now that would be a skill to learn...

All I can say is...you're brave! I'm just hoping to finish...

At the risk of starting a flame war... I'm a beginner mountainbiker and am looking to upgrade to clipless pedals. Just so that we start out on the right track... 1. I'm starting out as a weekend warrior 2. I'm not looking to spend thousands on pedals that weigh 1,5g ... weight at this stage is really not an issue. 3. I'm not into a specific brand, and I don't know much about specific models. What should I look out for? (Can't be all that much, can it? They're just pedals after all) Are there a few amateur Hubbers that can share their experiences here? I appreciate any comments from the pros too, though you guys work in a completely different price range to me I have enquired at my LBS, but I would like independent opinion. My LBS tends to want to sell me stuff I'm also looking to buy a pair of MTNbike shoes, since gluing the cleats to my "takkies" is just not Ayoba. What should I expect to pay here? Thanks in advance for all your suggestions!

Nope...OB for me...then again it is my first Argus, & I didn't do any seeding races. Maybe I am fast? We'll see

Thanks for this...opinions are what I need...both sides of the coin.

I thought I was finished... :-) but... I'm not in a hurry to buy...just itching. I know little of bike components, but every time I hear of something new I try to get all the info I can on the topic. It all boils down to experience. Those of you that are experienced riders have more knowledge than I when it comes to frames, forks, shifters, groupsets, brakes, etc. dirt-rider...I would not mind buying second hand components at all, especially if I can get a ridable bike at a good price. This, however, entails having a good knowledge about components...from the frame, to the brakes...knowing what the components would normally cost...basically being able to identify a bargain. Also, being able to spot whether the components are actually still in good shape or not, to not get screwed over. For me, the choices are therefore limited at this stage(although I won't write off building my own from scratch): 1. Silverback Reno - Good overall bike. Good pricing. Components maybe not too well suited to the abuse I may dish out. 2. Silverback Alpine - Well priced with mech. disc brakes. 3. Silverback Phoenix - Cheapest bike I've found with all Deore groupsets & hydraulic discs. dirt-rider...what would be your recommendation?

Thanks for all your opinions & advice. I've assimilated quite a bit of knowledge regarding bikes & cycling over the past weeks. Although I'll be spending substantially more than I had planned to spend on a bike, I think I will receive more from my bike than if I had spent less(if that makes any sense!). The main factor was the advice on the Deore components. I will trust the experience of my fellow Hubbers and take the plunge. Hopefully I'll meet some of you on the Gauteng tracks in the coming year. I will have much to learn!

And therein lies the dilemma... The main question is always: What is the main purpose of the bike? If we take the original post: it doesn't sound like Gavin needs anything for serious MTBing. In that case the Reno is probably the best buy you can get. My thoughts: I would like to ride mainly off-road, but am a beginner, so do I get something like a Silverback Phoenix (jughead_dave suggested looking at minimum Deore components) or a Reno (Silverbackman reckons the Reno is quite capable on even more difficult terrain). Aesthetically speaking, I love the Phoenix. It also has the Deore set. It is, however, important to note that there is a R3000 difference in price between the Phoenix & the Reno(a big difference if all you want to do is get fit & maybe do a trail or 2). I'll be looking to riding my bike daily, mainly commuting to and from work(save petrol, keep fit), but then also going trail riding over weekends. My head says: "the Reno is well priced, and will do the job". My heart says: "the Phoenix is so pretty...you want it...you need it...my precious!". Sometimes you just have to follow your heart.

Or how about that R95000 machine on the cover of the Dec/Jan Bicycling mag? :-)

I'm currently riding my brother-in-laws Reno (trying to get fit for the Argus next year - I'm still wet behind the ears :-) ), but once that's done & dusted I would like to get into MTB more seriously. Both leisure riding & once the skills have improved do some races for fun. The Reno is quite alright for road...proportions are quite comfy for me, though I actually need a large bike(this is a medium). If you're just riding on the road I can recommend the Reno(but I can't say how it compares to other brands - price wise probably the best on offer)

So better to look at something like the Phoenix?

hi guys... to those in the know...I'm looking to buy the Silverback Alpine...I would like to do off-road, maybe even some racing later. I'm not loaded with cash, so I'm looking for the most affordable bike that can do this from the outset. Silverback list the Alpine as being more suited to gentler rides. Any advice?