New to MTB: Need some guidance

[Cyclingzak]

2nd hand giant xtc carbon or new silverback sola 1

[Cyclingzak]

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/171333-giant-xtc-advanced-composite-carbon-l20/

 

Or

 

http://www.silverbacklab.com/bike/mountain/sola-1/

[KarlvN]

Much of muchness. Both have their pro's and cons.

 

Giant is excellent, and the Silverback is well specced. It comes down to price and new versus used really.

 

edit - spelling

[Cyclingzak]

I read some reviews and got some advice and the Silverback sola 1 sounds like a better buy.

Its more expensive but there is more advantage in buying it new.

[Ispeed_V]

Although I ride an XTC (1X11) as well, would suggest the sola as it is a 2X11 whereas the XTC advertised is a 1X10. Something to consider if new to MTB

[KarlvN]

I read some reviews and got some advice and the Silverback sola 1 sounds like a better buy.

Its more expensive but there is more advantage in buying it new.

How much for the Sola 1?

[Cyclingzak]

CMY44 why is the 2x11 a better option? Is it because it gives me more options on gears?

KarlvN ill be paying +- 23 000

[Eugene Brown]

The 2016 Silverback Sola 1 looks like one hell of a bike for R23K! The 2x11 will allow you to tackle more "obstacles" as a beginner due to it's wider gearing range than a 1x11 would offer you IMHO 

Having said that, I tested a Specialized Stumpy with 1x11 a few weeks ago, and I didn't really struggle with any of the normal routes I cover at Modderfontein. If you live in more mountainous/hilly countryside, the 1x11 might just be too much for beginner legs to push/pull though.

[Bub Marley]

1X11 has such a wide range of gears that its more than enough for me. When you're offroad simplicity is key. On a 2X11 setup you have 22 different gears to select. You dont need that much.

 

The only time the 1X11 falls short for me is downhills and flats where a bigger front ring would be handy. But you learn to live and make do with it. I personally love 1X11. 

[Cyclingzak]

Is it possible to transform the 2x11 into a 1x11as I get more comfortable without spending to much?

I stay in a forest in Zambia so parts needs to be brought up by visitors.

We have a lot of different landscapes. From long straights to fast technical single track with mud and rocks.

[Rick Sanchez]

I'd say go for the Giant.

Go 11 speed later on if need be and I'm sure you can negotiate a little on price.

Really nice bikes both of them though, but the Giant is so much more aesthetically pleasing, which is what it's all really about

[Rick Sanchez]

Is it possible to transform the 2x11 into a 1x11as I get more comfortable without spending to much?

I stay in a forest in Zambia so parts needs to be brought up by visitors.

We have a lot of different landscapes. From long straights to fast technical single track with mud and rocks.

Yeah just ditch the left shifter and front derailleur and put a narrow/wide ring on

 

Will only cost you about R500 for the ring

 

http://www.rapide.co.za/product/rapide-nw-ultralight-ring/

 

http://kalbo.co.za/productszringround.html

 

http://kalbo.co.za/productszringelliptical.html

[Cyclingzak]

Why would you rather go for the giant? Is it a better bike with better parts or is that just what you would prefer? I really need to make a smart choice for the long run.

I can always just ask the person who im buying the Silverback from to transform it into a 1x11. I personally would like less gears and wouldn't that actually mean less problems?

[KarlvN]

I would honestly rather buy new. Used, even for a good bike such as Giant, you just don't know what you're getting.

 

As for 1 x 11, unless you have some strong legs, you might find it tough going in the beginning.

Another reason is that being in Zambia, you will struggle to get parts, and a used bike will perhaps need servicing / new parts much sooner than a new bike.

 

I would rather spend extra on some spares, such as extra tires etc. Make sure you have tubeless and get acquainted with repairing the bike yourself. I am currently in Kinshasa, and logistics are a struggle in Africa. Airfreight is not cheap, and then you have to factor in the "taxes" to get your stuff...

[KarlvN]

Also, you will need to budget for extras like helmet, shoes, bib/baggies, jerseys, bidons, gloves etc. depending what style of riding you want to do.

[Cyclingzak]

Thanks KarlvN, I already decided on the Silverback and fully agree on what you are saying. Im buying a complete package. Bike, shoes, helmet and then n extra chain and few other things.

 

I think it would be best if I stay with the 2x11. Im still busy recovering from a kniee injury and operation in the other one.

 

Thanks a lot for the guidance. I appreciate it alot. How long does it take to finish a pair of tires?