malmens Posted January 8, 2010 Share I need advice/recommendations pls! I'd like to get into the sport but have no idea where to start. I've browsed extensively online, and chatted to as many ppl i know who cycle to get as much advice as possible. I've also chatted to most of the LBS in the CT area and was really impressed with the advice and expertise at Epic Bike Shop. At this point i'm looking at the Merida Matts TFS XC 400-D. Would this be a sufficient starting bike or maybe a little too much? Any other recommendations (reasons). Looked at the GT Avalanche 1.0 and have been recommended a Scott (can't remember model tho). Looking at spending roughly R8k for the bike excl accessories etc. Any help would be much appreciated, even if it is to say that the choice on the Merida is a good one. Merida specs: FRAME: Matts TFS-Comp-Disc FORK: ROCK SHOX DART 2 100 REAR DERAILLEUR: Shimano XT Shadow SHIFTER F/R: Shimano Deore Rapidfire BRAKE LEVERS: Hayes Stroker Ryde BRAKES F/R: Hayes Stroker Ryde 180/160 mm CHAINWHEEL: Shimano M442 44-32-22 HUBS F/R: Shimano M475 Disc SPOKES: Stainless Silver RIMS: Merida TFS Disc-Black FREEWHEEL: Shimano CS-HG50-9 11-32 TYRE F/R: Merida RACE 2.1 STEM: FSA OS-190 6? SADDLE: X-Mission Line SEATPOST: FSA SL280 SB25 31.6 PEDALS: Shimano M505 malmens2010-01-08 13:45:35 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wayne Potgieter Posted January 8, 2010 Share Consider buying 2nd hand from the hub.... Good deals around. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malmens Posted January 8, 2010 Share I've been advised against that due to potential problems/flaws with the bike which the current owner is not aware of. Have been keeping an eye out on the hub sales tho anyway! malmens2010-01-08 13:51:38 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vroetelvarkie Posted January 8, 2010 Share Scott Scale 70 or 60 is a very good entry level!! GT Avalanche a bit on the heavy side in my opinion. But 2nd hand is a good financial option if you can find a nice 2007/2008 model... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wayne Potgieter Posted January 8, 2010 Share Perhaps. Although in experience, the guys on the hub are pedantic about looking after there gear. But if you are more comfortable with new, then thats the way to go! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mackie Posted January 8, 2010 Share Two words my brother...Gee Tee!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wiMPers Posted January 8, 2010 Share Two words my brother...Gee Tee!!! I will second that... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wayne Potgieter Posted January 8, 2010 Share Two words my brother...Gee Tee!!! I will second that... If you second that, does it become four words? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TCTG Posted January 8, 2010 Share Take a look at latest bicycling magazine. A very good write up on different MTB's and Road bikes. Mongoos Otera Elite comes recommended and goes for R6995, within your budget. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Slowbee Posted January 8, 2010 Share Two words my brother...Gee Tee!!! two syllables..... IB....IS. Okay macster, before you donner me, he is wanting an entry level bike. I'll go back to doing the dishes and beer now. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malmens Posted January 8, 2010 Share Tx, definitely will take a look! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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