Kameel

I got these exact same Rockbros a few months ago. Also didn't want to pay for Oakleys and decided not to get Darcs either because, well, sometimes I just like trying something different. I can feel it's not necessarily top quality, but so far the photochromic lense is doing what it's supposed to. Frame is also light and comfy. Also won't necessarily cry when / if they eventually break.

Listening to what you're asking for here (something which absorbs bumps a bit better) - have you considered the Silverback Superspeed 2 (monoburst), Trek Procaliber (isospeed) or Scott Scale (one with SDS)? All hardtails with additional small bump compliance / extra flex / damping tech built into the frames. Those technologies (monoburst, isospeed, SDS) seem to be what you're after. I was also looking for a 2020 Titan Drone Pro but couldn't find one in my size (sold out in the entire country). The components you get is just unbeatable. However I managed to pick up a 2nd hand Silverback Superspeed on the Hub upgraded with a Reba fork and brand new drivetrain, well within your budget you mentioned above. I'm extremely happy that this is the bike I ended up with.

Thanks DR. Any other alternatives maybe when it comes to a tape? I only need something for the top tube, so not really keen on buying a full bike protection pack just for that one piece.

Thinking of using GT on the top tube for protection against scratches. Already have a thicker protection layer on the down tube. Question though for the experts - I'll be applying it to a carbon frame (raw / matte finish). Any reason I should not be using it? Any potential discolouring or residue issues on the frame over time?

She's a beaut! I also had the AL1 a few months back and was surprised by the performance. Especially up the hills, as you pointed out. I think it's mainly due to the POP geometry. Personally I wouldn't change anything on that bike to make it lighter. It really is good enough just as it is. If something is klaar, then you can probably replace with something lighter if you want. However the bike wasn't designed to be a light bike in my opinion. I just found that I'm still more XC orientated and opted for the Superspeed instead. If I had to go back to a trail bike, this would also be one of the first bikes I'd consider again. Enjoy!

Liewe d*nner. Dit ruk nou handuit. Hope you recover well sir.

Here's a Scalpel as well. Also not finding it in the stolen section though. https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/280213529895569/

Two weekends ago my chain broke at Meerendal. I finally got to use my chainbreaker on the trails I've been carrying with me for 6 years! Probably 15 people passed with each and every one of them actually asking whether they can help. The moment they heard me tell them it's the chain, most said 'eish, good luck, can't help with that one' and rode on. Most said they are able to help out if it was a puncture though. Anycase, not having fixed a chain before it took me a while to figure out. It looks so much easier on Youtube... Luckily a guy actually stopped and lent a hand. Shortly after he stopped, a young lady also stopped and helped us out - she knew her stuff. Not sure about the other guy, but I got schooled while at the same time being m*erse impressed with her... I made it back home thanks to them.

Out of interest sake - did they say what they're going to do with the bike now? Or will it just be put back at the front of the store again in a week or two from now.

Yeah I tend to agree with this. I phoned this lady twice on the day the ad was posted. Whether this is a case of dealing with a lack of urgency from OP / lack of updates on the hub by OP / or whether things are actually progressing in the background and OP can't share due to sensitive information, we wouldn't know - and that is what is frustrating me though - not knowing. Plain old curiosity. Aaaand genuinely wanting another skelm to go down. Either or, I think we've supported and done what we can. From here on it's in OP's hands.

Think there might have been a few developments in the background...would be great to know what happened at the end of the day.

I emailed her and then phoned her shortly after posting here. She said she'll check it out - didn't say much more though.

At least he had the decency to include a couch pic...

Lots of dodgy stuff going on there under that guy's FB listings, yoh..

Willemien, check this out https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/458607675104671/

What size are you looking for? There's a guy I know who is looking to sell his 2020 Silverback Stratos AL1 for about R30k. It's been hardly used. Size large. Drop me a PM if you want to consider it.

This was actually the first time I bothered to follow the TDF. Boy, am I glad I did! That was sport at its best.

You are literally putting together my ideas I can only dream of for now. Please post pics when done!

+1. I used to have a Saris Bones and it was solid ????????

I know I'm not really answering your question now, but if you're genuinely new to cycling I'd only make sure to get the tubeless conversion done for now, get a lekke kit and ride the bike as it is. The standard components on the AL5 is good enough to keep you going for a while. I'd ride it until components need replacement or you feel something specific is holding you back. By that time, you'll have a pretty good idea of which specific components you need which is better suited for your type of riding. Hope you enjoy the new bike!!

My email went into my 'promotions' inbox in gmail, which I don't get notifications for. Perhaps check it out.

Yes the frame is exactly the same across the AL series. I was lucky to get an AL1 for a great price, but they're all great value for money in my opinion.

I was looking at the Merida 96 400 myself, but decided to opt for a more trail orientated 'fun' bike instead which can still handle climbs well too. Ended up with a Stratos and extremely happy with it. Another small thing to point out is the Stratos can take two bottle cages in the frame which I found really helpful. But I don't think you'll go wrong with either of these two (Stratos & Vipa). I've only heard good things about the Momsen and it seems to be a solid bike. Beats the Stratos on its drivetrain. In your situation, I think I'd test ride the Momsen - if it feels good, go for it. Dropper post can always come later.

Eish. I have a Stratos AL1 with about 500km on it. No issues at all.

Shucks. Sincere condolences to all who knew him.