Hog_ Posted May 15, 2007 Share Hi all! I've decided to take up MTBing. After reading through VanMartin's topic I'm actually more confused than I was before!! I was actually on my to but a GT Avalanche GT3 disc on Saturday, but the store closed 15 min early so I couldn't get it. Only today did I read that the mech disc is not ideal. So, please help me choose a bike. Budget is <= R4k. Currently on the list is: Felt Q600 Schwinn Mesa LT Trek 4300 GT Avalanche 2.0 Kona Fire Mountain Fuji Nevada 1.0 Scott Reflex 40 Merida Matts 100-V Mongoose TYAX Super. Prices are based on the bicycling.co.za bike buyers guide. The only option I'm considering that's over R4k is the Mongoose Amasa Elite, which comes in at R5k, but has a hydraulic disc. So - opinions and advice please! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dirtrider Posted May 15, 2007 Share No Raleigh oooh well , Mongoose will also do . Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Psycho Posted May 15, 2007 Share Choose a bike that YOU LIKE.... it has to look good TO YOU, otherwise pm MudDee, he's not to bad on bikes and specs... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brakkies Sport Fotos Posted May 15, 2007 Share scott reflex 40, purely because of the backup you have in SA on a entry level. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hog_ Posted May 15, 2007 Share Choose a bike that YOU LIKE.... it has to look good TO YOU' date=' otherwise pm MudDee, he's not to bad on bikes and specs...[/quote'] If I chose by looks it would be either the Mesa LT or the Q600, but for all I know they're crap!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndreZA Posted May 15, 2007 Share First look at size and then narrow it down from there. Frames normally comes in 2" increments like 15", 17, 19" or 16", 18", 20". That can also come in as S, M and L but inch sizes are different depending on manufacturer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vanmartin Posted May 15, 2007 Share The most useful advice that was given to me I pass on to you - go visit the bikes shops, look at what they stock and if possible organise a test drive, even if it's in the parking lot. I just think it's really important to see the bike you're interested in right in front of you. I also based my search on the buyers guide but do keep in mind that prices may vary from the guide and that you may struggle to find a dealer stocking a particular bike make. None of the shops I visited sold Kona's for instance. Where are you based? vanmartin2007-05-15 08:01:24 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Psycho Posted May 15, 2007 Share I like the Felt...... and it looks good asswell.... but Scott has got good value for money, so for me I would choose between those two.... Oja, and welcome to The Hub.... enjoy the ride and keep youre hands and feet inside the car at all times..... Things to avoid: BIG H thats about all, so enjoy.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hog_ Posted May 15, 2007 Share The most useful advice that was given to me I pass on to you - go visit the bikes shops' date=' look at what they stock and if possible organise a test drive. Even if it's in the parking lot. I also based my search on the buyers guide but do keep in mind that prices may vary from the guide and that you may struggle to find a dealer stocking a particular bike make. None of the shops I visited sold Kona's for instance. Where are you based? [/quote'] I've been to a few shops already - most of the guys seem more interested in getting me to overspend on my budget then anything else. I'm in Bryanston. I've been to Cyclelab in Fourways - they have a special on a Trek 4300 which is pretty tempting, although I don't like the look of the bike. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndreZA Posted May 15, 2007 Share I'm in Bryanston. I've been to Cyclelab in Fourways - they have a special on a Trek 4300 which is pretty tempting' date=' although I don't like the look of the bike. [/quote'] Do yourself a favour and go to Linden Cycles. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scotty Posted May 15, 2007 Share Merida is not bad, but i think if you can take the bikes out for a spin to see what you are comfotable with, and then look at the components but dont be fooled totaly by some bikes that for example have an XT rear derailer but the rest of the bike has cr@p components, this they use as a selling gimmick. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vanmartin Posted May 15, 2007 Share It might be useful to list the components (front & rear derailer, brakes, shocks) for the bikes you're seriously considering and get the hubbers to comment on that, it might help you in your decision making. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MichH Posted May 15, 2007 Share My advice if you're looking at Shimano components is to look at Deore and up (Deore, LX, XT). When the components are a lower spec than this, they are usually not that long lasting, or designed for real offroad riding. Oh and if you get it before Sunday, come join us at Northern Farm for a Hubber shindig! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mudsimus Posted May 15, 2007 Share If I must make a choice from you list it will be the Felt. Otherwise take a look at the trek 4500. Full deore 27 sp, avid v's(so much better than even cheap hydro brakes), rockshox lockout fork. R 4600. And if you can turn your own arm get the Trek 6000. Avid juicy hydro brakes. This is Treks racing geometry frame. R6000. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thug Posted May 15, 2007 Share It might be useful to list the components (front & rear derailer' date=' brakes, shocks) for the bikes you're seriously considering and get the hubbers to comment on that, it might help you in your decision making.[/quote'] Have to agree, but first narrow your choice down to 3 or 4 bikes. Can also recommend you pay a visit to Linden Cycles. Oh... And welcome to The Hub Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hog_ Posted May 15, 2007 Share I'm actually leaning towards the Schwinn right now, mainly because it has Deore Derailleurs Front & Back, plus Deore Shifters. Who stocks Schwinn in Joburg? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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