Shotgun

It seems a bit steep - can get a new Merida Dual Suspension for 13K

Is this a good buy? http://capetown-westerncape.gumtree.co.za/c-Sports-Leisure-sports-bicycles-fitness-Giant-Anthem-1-2008-Large-W0QQAdIdZ362788873

I think that bike is in the process of being sold. Also, in KZN so I cannot view it.

I now have it confirmed from two different bike shops - it definitely is an 18 inch and therefor to small. I rode a Large Merida (19inch) from the shop and it really felt a whole lot better for a while until I saw the price... O yes and I am 1.86 and inseam 84cm

OK, new s**t came to light. Apparently the bike is a Medium (18 inches) and what I need is a Large - not a XL as previously stated.

What size is this? http://capetown-westerncape.gumtree.co.za/c-Sports-Leisure-sports-bicycles-fitness-Cannondale-SL2-Mountainbike-W0QQAdIdZ369494754

I did not get the idea that they want to sell me a new bike as he actually recommended that I look for a secondhand one. I guess he will not be getting the salesman of the month award.

I hope so if possible....but I guess it won't break the bank if it goes to say 12K.

Yes, XL

A setback - took the bike in for a service and it turns out it is indeed to small for me. So back in the market.

OK, now I need to start with exercise. Can anybody point me to a nice beginners program. Remember I have almost 6 months left to train, so I want to ease into it to make sure I stay injury free. Also, I would like to know about recommended diets etc.

I actually bought it a year ago, but always thought it wasn't good enough for something like the W2W. After speaking to some people, they said that it is more than enough for a beginner. It is a Large - apparently I am on the edge of L and XL, but they recon for something like the W2W it is better to err on the smaller side.

Thanks for the cool post. I ride an adventure motorcycle (KTM 990) and can stand witness through 45000 kms of gravel backroads that we live in moutainbike heaven!

Thanks for all the good advice so far. I have decided to go with a Giant Alias which I have found for R2500 on Gumtree. I am going to convert it to tubeless, add clips (or is it cleats - not sure if it is the right word), add a computer, add a toolbag, add a waterbottle holder, add a toolkit and pump. Then I think I am good to go? The rest of my money I will spend on a bib (or three), shoes, socks, helmet, gloves and shirts. Am I on the right track?

Cool thanks, will have a look.

What is the deal with underpants - do you get special types that go with these or do you go commando? If the latter, I guess you need more than one pair.

Top Fuel: Cool, I will get one (as comfort, I like) - I will however look like a tool! What is the real deal with shaving the legs? I have heard that it is to do with aerodynamics, infections when you fall and for enhanced stimulus during after-race massage. What is the truth?

Aah - this is the 'Bib'? I this really necessary? Why not just cycling pants? http://chavezcycling.com/images/493/1/cycling-bib-shorts.jpg

Thanks for the welcome and advice. That is exactly why I want to gain some knowledge before walking into the lion's den ('bike shops with sales people') so that I can at least decipher with the aim to fine tune the bullshitometer. I recon I can stretch my budget to 15K - all inclusive.

Aah I get you - caught in no-man's land between the hostile and freestyle territory.

To be honest, I was getting worried about the '29'r hardtail' in that I somehow skipped a chapter of the Kama Sutra.

That's how we roll..

Now that is helpful - thanks alot! Do you agree with the 29'r hardtail? Any particular brand I should be favouring/avoiding?

Thanks, I am in Somerset West.