The groupset on the Merida is better than the Momsen. The Momsen has got nice wheels though. So it really depends on what you want to do. Just to add to your list of bikes to consider. You can get either one of these for R13.5k at Cajees. http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-IN/bikes/model/xtc.29er/7554/46922/ http://www.scott-sports.com/gb_en/product/10040/55514/217951 The Giant in my Opinion is the best value for money bike currently.
How is the sidewall on the Specialized Fast Trak LK 29er tires? I had the 26" version fitted and their sidewalls were paper thin. After the 3rd cut sidewall in so many weeks I replaced them with Crossmarks.
I am watching it on freecaster. It's just pathetic in my opinion. Such a big showcase and yet, we get to see re-runs of SuperCycling and Paris Roubaix over and over again.
Just want to say that it is p1ss poor that the XCO world cup is not televised. Cycling South Africa is working on the principle of a Gauteng Municipality, lots of inflow, very little outflow. Any case, just very disappointing.
There is nothing that CSA or anybody would be able to do with knobs in their vehicles just ignore the closures. South Africans, especially in JHB, aren't patient on the roads and in general have a dislike towards cyclists! I wonder if they would have waited for clearing of the road if there was an accident? If you look at how well the rolling road closures worked during day 1 there was no reason the doubt it working for day 2. Problem is the motorists.
I took a spin on my buddy's Giant XTC and with the tapered head tube and through axle the front end is very stiff and the steering feels a lot more responsive than my On-One Scandal. And it is confidence inspiring when descending some knarly rocky section. I think it's awesome value for money.
I have a Shimano XT 29er MT75 wheelset and they are awesome thus far. Have been running them for a year no and they are still running true. They have proper tubeless rims. No rimstrip required. I have only had hassles with rimstrips and conversions.
Agreed! We should listen to the pro's and all ride Carbon 26" Hardtails. Just ask Julien, Jose and Nino! If you want to ride a 29er, just ride it cause you want to. That's what I am doing.
Since you threw the 29er in there. Why not look at the Giant XTC 29er. A friend of mine has bought one and it is excellent value for money. He paid R14k with tubeless conversion. SLX 30sp with XT RD, Fox Fork with Lockout. A bargain if you ask me.
Some more info http://twentynineinches.com Damn this is nice! http://twentynineinches.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/One_fine_8_c29er-500x383.jpg http://twentynineinches.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/One_fine_9_c29er-500x279.jpg
There is an oomie (current SA over 65 champ) that swears by Rennies. He rides with Rennies in his back pocket, when he cramps he takes two and according to him the cramping subsides within 10 minutes.
