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29ER Softail versus 29ER hardtail.


2niner

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I know im going to get some seriously obvious answers, but the reason for my question is I'm considering replacing my Giant anthem X29Er with a 29er hardtail.Choices are Momsen,Volcan, Scott, Niner. Weight is an important factor, so sub 10,5kg is my target.

Is this a dumb move,and are there huge differences in ride comfort between a carbon frame and an aliminium frame. Most of my riding would be small portion of tar, routes similar to the last PicknPay Knysna 50Km ride, single track and technical downhills. I ride almost daily, do not do any serious racing but like to compete in the odd events with distances of 80km to 130km per ride.

Your views would be appreciated. :)

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130 km...kinda sounds like words like 'comfort' and 'plush' should be high on the agenda?

I have a duel sus 29er - I also wonder how a 29er HT would be....I have no idea. But for me a 40 km ride is plenty.

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I done a few long rides on my 29er Hardtail....felt awesome....comparing to 26er ride is way smoother. I never tried a Dual suspension before as I find a hardtail perfect....

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My 2c - if you are riding 80-130 off raod - go for Softail. You can make a hardtail softer by putting on a bigger tyre, but then you could have clearance issues - especially if there is mud.

I tested Hardtails, but prefer the full suspension ride - in all conditions except tar. You will battle to get to your bike weight target though.

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How so?

Hardtail bikes are the best… if…

  • You are riding smooth single track and need accurate response
  • You need good climbing ability
  • You want a lighter bike
  • You want pedalling efficiency (and to conserve your own energy)
  • If you are a XC racer who is after the biggest weight saving
  • Want a bike that is easier to maintain and keep in good working order
  • Are a dirt jumper who wants better pump off of jumps

 

Full Suspension bikes are the best… if…

  • You ride downhill
  • Go off jumps/drop-offs
  • Suffer from saddle-ass
  • Ride in rough terrain
  • Want an all round bike with less limitations
  • Want a smoother ride on the trail
  • Want a more comfortable bike

Edited by Chubba
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My bike weights 12.2 kg. From this point an wards to get it lighter it means a lot more expensive and a lot more flimsy.

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If weight is your issue, consider the Spez S-Works Stumpjumper 29er HT. Rides and climbs like a 26er with the benefits of a 29er, This is mine weighing 9.3kg.

post-12004-0-41063000-1314003253.jpg

Edited by andrè traut
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These are looking hot, with rumoured retail of around R30 000... and should be in SA soon :clap:

 

http://cdn.mongoose.com/catalog/product/cache/108/image/878x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/m/_/m_12_METEL_WHT_6.jpg

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If sub 10.5kg is ure constraint u gonna have to loosen your money belt first up. I just been transalp 600km on my trek superfly elite (HT), conclusion, if it could cook I would marry it. Best handling big wheel ever ridden with stiff chassy and a long range cruiser feel to it.

Would check out the new scott range 29'ers awesome bang for the buck and light too.Carbon version +- R25k

Ill never ride 26" wheels again just sold mine.

good luck.

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thanks hubbers, its going to come to a weight/value for money thing. 10.5 kg is a bit ambitious, becauce of pricing, so swaying towards a hardtail, for now.

:thumbup:

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Does 1 or 2 kg's really make a difference in total weight of a 29er mtb?

 

Im in the same boat as to go HT or Dual sus 29er mtb.

Edited by heed0
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If you're not racing then why is weight an issue?

According to what you will be using the bike for then you might as well just upgrade or get a new bike.

 

Compared to a 26er hardtail a 29er hardtail is the equivalent of a 26er dual suss.

But like i said before, why is weight a concern if you're just gonna be chilling on the technical stuff?

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If you're not racing then why is weight an issue?

According to what you will be using the bike for then you might as well just upgrade or get a new bike.

 

Compared to a 26er hardtail a 29er hardtail is the equivalent of a 26er dual suss.

But like i said before, why is weight a concern if you're just gonna be chilling on the technical stuff?

 

Dont disagree, have considered an upgrade, but i know there's aleays that one time you're going to want to race and wish for a more responsive bike.

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Dont disagree, have considered an upgrade, but i know there's aleays that one time you're going to want to race and wish for a more responsive bike.

 

But is that one race really worth being uncomfortable on all the other rides?

I assume you're selling your current bike too.

 

I ride a 26" hardtail and I love it, but thats just me.

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