Where do I start?

[Shotgun]

Seems OK, It also only has 8 speed, not the greatest when you can now get 10 speed for mountain bikes nowdays.

 

I think the 2012 spec is actually 9 speed: http://www.specialized-sa.co.za/contentbike.php?range=213

[Caerus]

Exactly, I thought if I can get it for say R5500, then I still have R2500 to spend on the bike before I get to R8000! Anybody who thinks I am making a mistake?

Even if you budget say R3000 for a new fork or new wheels, there are some good deals around online at the sites I said to check.

[Shotgun]

Its more like a decent frame with a whole bunch of crap attached to it, but thats fine, as you start off and break stuff, you dont want high grade components and you can invest and upgrade over time.

 

Like caerus said, upgrade 1 the fork upgrade 2 the wheelset. The rest you ride till it breaks. and then replace with higher level components.

 

If you say upgrade the fork/wheel set: anything you can recommend? Would it maybe not be good for me to just stick to the standard stuff during my training and then upgrade a month or two prior to the race?

[Caerus]

I think the 2012 spec is actually 9 speed: http://www.specializ...e.php?range=213

Just check and make sure what model you are looking at. Possibly call the shop back to check.

[Caerus]

If you say upgrade the fork/wheel set: anything you can recommend? Would it maybe not be good for me to just stick to the standard stuff during my training and then upgrade a month or two prior to the race?

You can do that. When the bug has really bitten, you may actually be looking at a new bike 2 months before W2W, lol. Its totally up to you, but it would be nice to upgrade now rather, if you can. You will certainly feel/ notice a massive difference in the bike with better wheels or fork.

[Shotgun]

Just check and make sure what model you are looking at. Possibly call the shop back to check.

 

Just confirmed with the shop - this is the spec: http://www.specialized-sa.co.za/contentbike.php?range=213

 

So 9 speed!

[covie]

If you say upgrade the fork/wheel set: anything you can recommend? Would it maybe not be good for me to just stick to the standard stuff during my training and then upgrade a month or two prior to the race?

 

Yes you can stick to the standard stuff and it will work, but soon as youre skills progress you will want a better fork for better ride comfort, If i remember the rockhopper only has 80mm of travel, (speaking under correction here) but regardless youll want a plusher ride in time.

 

2 getting a new wheelset is not just about getting something that rolls better you also shave of a lot of weight by putting on new wheels so its double score.

 

That said you could ride that bike as is just fine,,,,,, but as you will soon find out upgrading your kit becomes an obsession, I bought a really expensive bike last month, this month its a new shock, next month new wheelset, month after that probably new crank or brakeset, you eventually build the machine the way you want it costly .... but fun

[Shotgun]

Yes you can stick to the standard stuff and it will work, but soon as youre skills progress you will want a better fork for better ride comfort, If i remember the rockhopper only has 80mm of travel, (speaking under correction here) but regardless youll want a plusher ride in time.

 

2 getting a new wheelset is not just about getting something that rolls better you also shave of a lot of weight by putting on new wheels so its double score.

 

That said you could ride that bike as is just fine,,,,,, but as you will soon find out upgrading your kit becomes an obsession, I bought a really expensive bike last month, this month its a new shock, next month new wheelset, month after that probably new crank or brakeset, you eventually build the machine the way you want it costly .... but fun

 

OK cool - for now I am just ampted to get a bike and start riding! Will keep you posted!

[covie]

OK cool - for now I am just ampted to get a bike and start riding! Will keep you posted!

 

Let me know when your hooked up ill take you for a guided tour of some of the best singletrack CPT has to offer

[Shotgun]

Let me know when your hooked up ill take you for a guided tour of some of the best singletrack CPT has to offer

 

Cool, just give me chance to get some fitness going. Will keep you posted on progress.

[jules1976]

 

 

This is the end of the beginning - within a year you will have spent 20k+ and still be planning more, but you will love every minute of it

Most definitely ..... im considering my next upgrade

[Caerus]

Some Forks: https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/25540-29er-2012-rock-shox-reba-rl-100mm-fork/

 

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/25535-brand-new-rock-shox-reba-rl-29er-suspension/

[arendoog]

and the guys behind you wont have to look at your plumber crack hanging out.

Dont have a bib and dont need one.Have done plenty of 80km rides without.I would rather make sure my saddle fits well .Dont waste money on a camelback.if you are planning to carry all that stuff around ,you are getting poor advice.Good used bike is better option than buying a new poor specced one .

[Scott2luvit]

rather go for this then http://www.solomonsonline.co.za/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=17&products_id=698 at least you have deore and a better fork,

[Caerus]

Dont have a bib and dont need one.Have done plenty of 80km rides without.I would rather make sure my saddle fits well .Dont waste money on a camelback.if you are planning to carry all that stuff around ,you are getting poor advice.Good used bike is better option than buying a new poor specced one .

HuH?

[Shotgun]

rather go for this then http://www.solomonso...products_id=698 at least you have deore and a better fork,

 

Any comments on this suggestion?