Hey all, hoping for some advice on what is reasonable cost for componentry, and generally if my buying logic makes sense.
I have started cycling recently and the bug is biting. I am currently on my old childhood Mongoose (15 yr old hard tail, that I think is also too small. I have given it a service and cleats but I think its just getting a bit tired).
The idea for now is to be riding at least once a week with family on the spruit, with the intention to ride 94.7s/Argus and ultimately things like Wines 2 Whales.
I think that previously loved always tends to give better bang for buck than new, just need to find a good deal.
So the first question would be: is second hand carbon as much of a problem as I think it is?
I seem to see mixed feelings when reading reviews, and am leaning on the side of carbon will be more likely to have damage. (Obviously need to have a look at bikes in person regardless, I'm just concerned that I wouldn't be able to see a problem even if it where there, as I don't really know what to look for.)
WRT components, I think XT or equivalent seems to be a reasonable point of solid components but not outrageously costed?
I think that I am looking for:
29 inch
Aluminium (Carbon?)
Full sus
XL (I am 187cm so a bit on the boundary between L/XL).
XT/equiv components all round
1x / 2x (I know 1x is the more modern option, but suspect that I could find a good deal on 2x and nothing wrong here?)
Tubeless!
I have seen a couple bikes that fit my description, but I don't know if I'm looking at good deals or lemons, as I don't really know what this should cost?
Any advice on whether my thinking makes sense, and further whether something of this spec at around the R25k mark seems reasonable?
Also not sure if things like travel on shocks is something I should be worrying about for now?
Thanks in advance
Ross
