Gearman

Ok, I'm no expert .. but IMHO there are 2 main factors to consider: the weight difference and the head tube angle between the 2 frames. Read up on head tube angles and pick the angle best suited for the type of riding you do. Granted .. the look of the frame also plays a role and there I personally can't stand GT frames. GT frames always looks like a botched welding job where the seat tube connects with the stays.

Depends on her length, but generally a 24" is for 8 to 12yr olds. For your budget, you may need to look at a good second hand 26er. Maybe look at silverback brand as they are generally good value. You will battle to find a new bike with OK spec for the budget. Maybe look at spending a bit more, then you can pass it on later to the younger one.

Thanks to all for the great .. and funny feedback! With all the advice I'm sure to enjoy the silence and stopping power on my next ride!

I've recently brought an secondhand 2011 Giant Anthem that has Avid Elixir CR brakes. Needless to say, I'm not very happy with the performance of the brakes .. besides the fact that they are almost never quiet. Is there something one can do to fix the performance and noise issues ? Does not look like the brake pads needs replacing, but maybe there is a better brake pad that does the job better? My first instinct is to chuck 'em and go XT, but the budget is not looking so great right now. Then again .. I would prefer to leave the tree-hugging (due to bad brakes) to the greenies. What do you recon?

When I was shopping for mtb shoes, I tried to chat with the owner of a shop in CW and was told to go and buy it online, but he was not going to budge on he's price. Strange chap, because it was also he's very last pair in that brand and model. Hopefully this is the exception. Shops like CWC has the right idea where you can either go to the shop or buy online at (mostly) the same price.

Hi Hubbers, Interesting to hear your opinion on these 2 XC bikes: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-za/bikes/model/xtc.29er.1/12784/59384/#specifications http://www.silverbacklab.com/2011_website_SILVERBACK/vida1_13.htm Prices for the 2013 models: Giant R16295 Silverback R13225 Sola R15000 Both bike prices has dropped by +- 3k to make way for 2014 stock. On paper, the Silverback looks to be better value, but the proof is in the riding. Your opinion?

Thanks !

Hi, I'm looking to service my dual air rockshock. Any recommendation where it can be done without being ripped off and hopefully does not take weeks to do? Cheers!

Hi, Where can one find Northwave MTB Shoes in Cape Town? Cheers

Do the decca bibs only have one type of padding option? In other words, the one's they make for corporate and those for sale on websites are the same padding ?

Hi, I'm also keen to hear how the Decca bibs are rated. Please post on the forum when you get feedback. Thanks!

Thanks .. will do !

Hi, we're visiting family in Port Elizabeth next week and I am hoping to go for a ride at Baakens River MTB Trail (Guineafowl Trail). MTBroutes.co.za recommended that you should not cycle this route alone . I'm a typical weekend warrior with average fitness. Let me know if you are planning a ride and I'll gladly join in.

Hi Guys, I'm trying to decide between the Olympic hurrican and Serfas Mens Trax shoes. There is not much difference in the price. The Serfas is a bit more multi-purpose, which is why I'm considering it. Factors to consider: * Durability * Comfort * Easy to clean * walking \ dismounting on rough terrain * shock absorbency on feet & legs (hard tail bike) I do appreciate your feedback. http://www.cycleteknix.co.za/uploads/olympic_hurricane_mtb.jpg http://www.buycycle.co.za/images/detailed/11/Serfas_Shoes_SHOE_MTB_MENS_TRAX_41_BLK_GRY.jpghttp://www.bikespecsprice.com/images_products/Serfas-Mens-Trax-Cycling-Shoe_large_4.jpg

At least a semi happy ending for us. I was refunded and they said we can keep the tyres for the inconvience caused.

Hi Guys, Thought I'll share my disappointing online shopping experience with Olympic Cycles Web shop. I needed new mtb tyres for the (now past) Lourensford event and place an order for me and a buddie 2 weeks before the event. The order was for 4 MAXXIS of a specific size and compound. Had to allow 4 days for delivery. On the morning of the 4th day, I phoned the shop and spoke to the guy responsible for web orders that only started the job 3 days ealier. He had no clue of the existance of the order, but placed the order with their supplier and promised to let me know when it arrives at the shop. I was contacted when it arrived and delivery details was confirmed .. this was 2 days before the event. That evening at home, when I was about to fit the tires, I noticed that it was the right brand & size, but incorrect compound ! I phoned back the next morning and spoke to the boss. They did not have any simular stock to replace it with and I was told that the supplier no longer carried the tyre we ordered. Nicely left high and dry, so we had to duck out at lunchtime from work to go and hunt for something that will fit our requirements and the budget. The bottom line .. the specials are ok, but the service not and you better be prepaired to follow up on your order.

Can anyone give me feedback on which of the Thule (hangon 972/4) or Holdfast(SA 2000) towbar bike carriers are the best option, considering that it will have to cater for MTB's. And is it better to go for a flexi or screw down clamp?