Silverback Stratos AL 5

[Kameel]

Great to hear that it's not only me having this experience on the Stratos. Loving this bike.

 

Also I'm in agreement with Bob's sentiments. Overall it's a very efficient bike even if it's heavier than my previous bikes. If weight still remains a concern, best route will probably be opting for a different bike alltogether rather spending loads to upgrade to lighter components on the AL range. Just my honest opinion.

[Super Sywurm]

I miss my Stratos...

[Kameel]

I miss my Stratos...

Maybe if you ask Guy nicely... ????

[Super Sywurm]

Maybe if you ask Guy nicely... ????

The only way that I would get another dual susp bike is if I can keep my hard tail. The wife and the bank does not allow something like that.

[Spafsack]

Hi guys, thanx for the replies, feel much better now. And yes, even though it is heavier my wife is faster on downhills, rock gardens etc.. So it makes it up. We are now at ease    

[Murray_101]

Hi guys, kind of new to the bike hub and cycling world. I've read through all the comments and got some great info.

 

My AL 5 is arriving tomorrow and just wanted to know from those that have had it a little while, what upgrades have you done that has improved the bicycle?

[Butterbean]

Hi guys, kind of new to the bike hub and cycling world. I've read through all the comments and got some great info.

 

My AL 5 is arriving tomorrow and just wanted to know from those that have had it a little while, what upgrades have you done that has improved the bicycle?

My Al5 is pretty upgraded... Reba front fork, sram GX eagle drivetrain (using a sunrace 11-50 cassette), Lyne amp 30 wheelset, new bars, Seatpost, and saddle. It's still on the heavy side but rides superbly!

 

Rear shock is next on the list, but not a major pain at the moment.

[Kameel]

Hi guys, kind of new to the bike hub and cycling world. I've read through all the comments and got some great info.

 

My AL 5 is arriving tomorrow and just wanted to know from those that have had it a little while, what upgrades have you done that has improved the bicycle?

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!!

[Spafsack]

I bought my wife the AL5, round about a year ago max. She is 1.65, small frame. She loves her bike. Only upgrades i did was carbon straight bar, second hand, different saddle and seat post. The fork is fine for her as she is light. Upgrading parts will cost allot. Enjoy! 

[Spafsack]

Almost forgot, as you state, you are starting out, get a paid of flat pedals, good quality, replace the standard issue. Learn to ride like that, if you later want to change to clips then at least you have learnt a few important basics.

[Butterbean]

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!!

This is good advice. The stock parts list on the Al5 is not left all that much wanting, especially for beginners. Ride the bike, and then upgrade when parts wear out or you think you're hitting the limit. Mine was upgraded because I had the parts already. I wouldn't have done too much had I not had them.

[DR ◣◢]

Hi guys, kind of new to the bike hub and cycling world. I've read through all the comments and got some great info.

 

My AL 5 is arriving tomorrow and just wanted to know from those that have had it a little while, what upgrades have you done that has improved the bicycle?

What kind of riding are you planning on doing?

[Murray_101]

Hey guys, thank you for all the replies and info, definitely much appreciated. I just wanted to know if there was any part that needed to be changed, I'll definitely be riding the bike the way it is if I'm starting out.

 

I do definitely have riding experience so I've got all my gear from my previous bike. It's just been a while since I last rode.

 

I'm just looking to do normal trail riding, nothing hard-core or major.

 

I do have another question for everyone that sees this post. I'm looking to get my Fiance a bike and my budget is around R7-8k. Can anyone recommend the best in that price range?, even second hand is an option and it will obviously be the same riding as I do.

 

Thank you in advance guys????????

[Butterbean]

Hey guys, thank you for all the replies and info, definitely much appreciated. I just wanted to know if there was any part that needed to be changed, I'll definitely be riding the bike the way it is if I'm starting out.

 

I do definitely have riding experience so I've got all my gear from my previous bike. It's just been a while since I last rode.

 

I'm just looking to do normal trail riding, nothing hard-core or major.

 

I do have another question for everyone that sees this post. I'm looking to get my Fiance a bike and my budget is around R7-8k. Can anyone recommend the best in that price range?, even second hand is an option and it will obviously be the same riding as I do.

 

Thank you in advance guys????????

For the fiance, PLENTY here on the hub classifieds. If you're not up for hunting through used bikes, pretty much every bike shop should have an entry level bike in that price range that will be good enough to get going on.