I need a bike - opinions sought....
Posted by: Richard Dane on 27 May 2004
Well, my daughter is growing up fast and has taken to bicycling as her favourite way to get about. Fine, except it has been years since I sold my old Peugeot racer and the years have meant that replacement with a similar machine is not really on the cards… A quick visit to the bike shop in Salisbury was quite an eye opener - things have really changed in 20 years!
So, dear friends, I’m hoping somebody with bicycle knowledge can assist me. I am looking for something that can cope with a mix of country lane and track , is comfortable to ride (I’m beyond contorting myself in the way I used to with the Peugeot), not too heavy, not too flash, and relatively inexpensive (so I don’t get too upset when it inevitably gets knicked….). My friendly local bicycle shop has recommended a Claud Butler Legend or Urban 300. I tend to favour the Legend, it looks a bit more comfortable although I’m concerned that it may not cope with some of the tracks we have around here. The long and the short of it is, anybody got any other good suggestions…?
Yours in anticipation,
Richard
So, dear friends, I’m hoping somebody with bicycle knowledge can assist me. I am looking for something that can cope with a mix of country lane and track , is comfortable to ride (I’m beyond contorting myself in the way I used to with the Peugeot), not too heavy, not too flash, and relatively inexpensive (so I don’t get too upset when it inevitably gets knicked….). My friendly local bicycle shop has recommended a Claud Butler Legend or Urban 300. I tend to favour the Legend, it looks a bit more comfortable although I’m concerned that it may not cope with some of the tracks we have around here. The long and the short of it is, anybody got any other good suggestions…?
Yours in anticipation,
Richard
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Rasher
Like HiFi, once you have decided on the brand that suits you for whatever reason, you have the idea of what the designers are aiming at, so upgrading within that manufacturers range is a safe bet. The MTB market is seriously fashion led, so much so that friends of mine just ache to have the latest frames as soon as they hit the shops, and the year of the components (like forks for example) is all. I got my forks for less than half price because they were last years model and no self respecting MTB'er would then touch them! The online market for superceeded models is bargain paradise for the likes of you and me.
You know the make you like, you know the size. I know what I would do.
You know the make you like, you know the size. I know what I would do.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by matthewr
"Only disappointment so far has been that none of the shops here have been able to offer a demonstration ride"
Alarm bells should go off -- if they cannot offer a test ride they are not a good bike shop. Period. And you might as well buy mail order and get it cheaper.
IMHO and unless you have experience of very similar bikes a test ride is essential.
Matthew
PS FWIW The Marin I offered you 2 pages ago was a much better bike for less money and comfy steel to boot. Although your mention of a 20" frame makes you about 6ft 4" so it probably wouldn't have fitted you anyway.
Alarm bells should go off -- if they cannot offer a test ride they are not a good bike shop. Period. And you might as well buy mail order and get it cheaper.
IMHO and unless you have experience of very similar bikes a test ride is essential.
Matthew
PS FWIW The Marin I offered you 2 pages ago was a much better bike for less money and comfy steel to boot. Although your mention of a 20" frame makes you about 6ft 4" so it probably wouldn't have fitted you anyway.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Richard Dane:
I have decided to go for a Marin Bolinas Ridge in a 20" frame. Perhaps not the most exciting bike out there but it seems like an excellent all-rounder that is more than the sum of its relatively modest parts - a bicycle equivalent to the NAIT perhaps?
More an Arcam that a Nait I'd say.0
Looks a nice enough bike although the spec isn't the best around at that price. If it fits you well and feels right (it's quite an upright riding position for a MTB by the looks of it and 20" is a pretty large frame) then that's more important than the rest of the spec - no point having a well specced bike you don't like riding...
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Matthew Robinson:
"Only disappointment so far has been that none of the shops here have been able to offer a demonstration ride"
Alarm bells should go off -- if they cannot offer a test ride they are not a good bike shop. Period. And you might as well buy mail order and get it cheaper.
IMHO and unless you have experience of very similar bikes a test ride is essential.
Unless you really know what you're doing then a test ride is essential. My 1st MTB was the wrong size for me because I didn't know what I was doing.
I made sure I got a test ride on my Epic before I parted with the cash for it, but for the others (partly because I buy 2nd hand) I've not been so concerned as I've a fair idea what I'm doing now.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Richard Dane
To be fair to Stonehenge, we spent a good quarter of an hour trying out different frame sizes for the best "fit". It was a toss up between 18.5" and 20". I am 6'4" - the salesman felt that the 20" frame looked better.... I got to "ride" around the shop!!
Having said that, I have visited 3 bike shops now and none of them allow test rides.
Matthew, yes I realise the bike you are offering is better spec but as I explained to you it would not be right for me as administrator to accept your offer, tempting as it most certainly is despite any doubts I may have regarding the purchase of a second-hand bike in general.
Steve, OK, it's a fair cop, Arcam perhaps is closer to the mark. So, do you reckon I should disappoint my local bike shop and go for the Bear Valley instead?? (I'm tempted, oh so tempted...!!)
Richard
Having said that, I have visited 3 bike shops now and none of them allow test rides.
Matthew, yes I realise the bike you are offering is better spec but as I explained to you it would not be right for me as administrator to accept your offer, tempting as it most certainly is despite any doubts I may have regarding the purchase of a second-hand bike in general.
Steve, OK, it's a fair cop, Arcam perhaps is closer to the mark. So, do you reckon I should disappoint my local bike shop and go for the Bear Valley instead?? (I'm tempted, oh so tempted...!!)
Richard
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Rasher
Popping into a local bike shop last weekend where I saw the Marin Mount Vision (£2050) was a nice surprise. Although I had never been in that shop before and only went in to look for a bike for my 6 year old daughter, they told me about the Mount Vision and said to take it around the block to try it out.
Sounds a different experience to yours Richard.
(Come to think of it, they must be mad!).
You must get one you are really excited about, otherwise it will remain in the garage unused.
Sounds a different experience to yours Richard.
(Come to think of it, they must be mad!).
You must get one you are really excited about, otherwise it will remain in the garage unused.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Richard Dane
Alex,
I am glad you are enjoying it! It is exactly because of this that I decided to post here. For me it has been a wonderful lesson so far and has told me much about the decisions faced by the inexperienced or uninitiated when contemplating the purchase of new "toys".
It's tough out there and good luck to anybody intent on sticking to a strict budget... Already I am swayed by Steve and Matthews disapproval at the "budget" choice of the Bolinas Ridge... I have even called up to enquire about the size availability for the Bear Valley MTB. More questions are posed - it's got a "Chromoly steel" frame - eeek! is that better?, worse? Am I contemplating a lemon...? I need to lie down....
Richard
I am glad you are enjoying it! It is exactly because of this that I decided to post here. For me it has been a wonderful lesson so far and has told me much about the decisions faced by the inexperienced or uninitiated when contemplating the purchase of new "toys".
It's tough out there and good luck to anybody intent on sticking to a strict budget... Already I am swayed by Steve and Matthews disapproval at the "budget" choice of the Bolinas Ridge... I have even called up to enquire about the size availability for the Bear Valley MTB. More questions are posed - it's got a "Chromoly steel" frame - eeek! is that better?, worse? Am I contemplating a lemon...? I need to lie down....
Richard
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Richard Dane:
To be fair to Stonehenge, we spent a good quarter of an hour trying out different frame sizes for the best "fit". It was a toss up between 18.5" and 20". I am 6'4" - the salesman felt that the 20" frame looked better.... I got to "ride" around the shop!!
20" should be right for someone 6'4". A 18.5" would usually be too small unless you've got very short legs or it's a street/jumpy bike.
quote:
Having said that, I have visited 3 bike shops now and none of them allow test rides.
Most shops I know will allow rides, although some of them require significant deposits (e.g. the full value of the bike) first. Oddly enough though the only shop I do use which can be a problem is the one at Glentress, although usually you can try one of their hire bike fleet if they have an equivalent. Even they will let you ride round the car-park etc. though.
quote:
Matthew, yes I realise the bike you are offering is better spec but as I explained to you it would not be right for me as administrator to accept your offer, tempting as it most certainly is despite any doubts I may have regarding the purchase of a second-hand bike in general.
Buying 2nd hand is the best way to buy an MTB IMHO, as long as you have at least some idea of what you're looking for.
quote:
Steve, OK, it's a fair cop, Arcam perhaps is closer to the mark. So, do you reckon I should disappoint my local bike shop and go for the Bear Valley instead?? (I'm tempted, oh so tempted...!!)
Had the shop offered you a test ride then I'd say no, however as they haven't I'd definitely be looking at better value purchases via the web. It depends if you feel it's valuable to develop a relationship with the shop or not really.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Rasher
Is this a Nuno moment?
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Richard Dane
Nuno always had my deepest sympathies....
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
quote:
Originally posted by Richard Dane:
It's tough out there and good luck to anybody intent on sticking to a strict budget... Already I am swayed by Steve and Matthews disapproval at the "budget" choice of the Bolinas Ridge... I have even called up to enquire about the size availability for the Bear Valley MTB. More questions are posed - it's got a "Chromoly steel" frame - eeek! is that better?, worse? Am I contemplating a lemon...? I need to lie down....
Is the Bear Valley you're looking at the same spec as this?
If so that looks a nice bike.
I like steel frames (I'm on my 3rd steel hardtail now). They're a bit heavier than a good alloy frame but tend to be more comfortable.
Regards
Steve
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by seagull
Nuno's back - he's dipped his toe in the Music Room...
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Richard Dane
That's the one, only the 2002 model in Grey with Manitou Six Comp forks. Currently on Sale at £450...
Richard
Richard
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by matthewr
It was a toss up between 18.5" and 20"
If it's a toss up I think generally slightly small is usually better than slightly big. Not only is it easier to handle a smaller bike but you usually have more scope for tweaking the fit with different stems, bars and seatposts.
Also if you are in-between for a Marin you might try another make and find a better fit.
"Having said that, I have visited 3 bike shops now and none of them allow test rides"
My local bike shop let me ride an £1800 bike and just asked that I left my wallet. I even rode it down a set of stairs. Other shops I've been in like to swipe your card for the value of the bike. I'm really surprised an independent doens
"as I explained to you it would not be right for me as administrator to accept your offer"
No problem -- it would definitely be too small for you anyway. Plus I think it has a new lucky owner anyway.
"Already I am swayed by Steve and Matthews disapproval at the "budget" choice of the Bolinas Ridge"
I wouldn't dream of criticising your choice (and certainly not your budget) I think any Marin would do everything you need of it.
Matthew
If it's a toss up I think generally slightly small is usually better than slightly big. Not only is it easier to handle a smaller bike but you usually have more scope for tweaking the fit with different stems, bars and seatposts.
Also if you are in-between for a Marin you might try another make and find a better fit.
"Having said that, I have visited 3 bike shops now and none of them allow test rides"
My local bike shop let me ride an £1800 bike and just asked that I left my wallet. I even rode it down a set of stairs. Other shops I've been in like to swipe your card for the value of the bike. I'm really surprised an independent doens
"as I explained to you it would not be right for me as administrator to accept your offer"
No problem -- it would definitely be too small for you anyway. Plus I think it has a new lucky owner anyway.
"Already I am swayed by Steve and Matthews disapproval at the "budget" choice of the Bolinas Ridge"
I wouldn't dream of criticising your choice (and certainly not your budget) I think any Marin would do everything you need of it.
Matthew
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Dan M
From the above link:
"Advertised Retail: $556.00* (x 0.544 = UKP302.) *The stated price is the USD Advertised Retail Price and does not include shipping, handling or dealer set up."
Yikes, seems like you're paying a huge premium for a US bike. Are there no UK bikes at UKP450 that offer a better value?
Dan
btw, if it were me and I had to have one bike (60/40 road dirt) it would be a cyclocross bike
"Advertised Retail: $556.00* (x 0.544 = UKP302.) *The stated price is the USD Advertised Retail Price and does not include shipping, handling or dealer set up."
Yikes, seems like you're paying a huge premium for a US bike. Are there no UK bikes at UKP450 that offer a better value?
Dan
btw, if it were me and I had to have one bike (60/40 road dirt) it would be a cyclocross bike
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Dan M
Richard,
I think it's time to visit your dealer in CO -- who know's you might even have time to pop into a local bike shop
My local bike shop has this for $650 (2003):
Dan
[This message was edited by Dan M on Wed 02 June 2004 at 17:47.]
I think it's time to visit your dealer in CO -- who know's you might even have time to pop into a local bike shop
My local bike shop has this for $650 (2003):
Dan
[This message was edited by Dan M on Wed 02 June 2004 at 17:47.]
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Justin
I have a slightly older model of the Marin Bolinas Ridge. For you, it's an import (from Marin county, California). Won't you find a bike with a better set of components for the money if you stick to one manufactured in the UK? There are UK makers (other than Pashley - christ all, if those aren't the equivilant of a Victrola cabinet unit)?
Judd
Judd
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
Other options around the £450 mark.
Pauls Cycles (www.paulscycles.co.uk) - great for deals on previous years models
'03 Giant XTC SE 4, £424.95
'03 Giant NRS 4 £499.95
'03 Giant XTC860 £449.95
Kona Cindercone £449.95
http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/
Great value for their own brand bikes
Merlin Ltd Edition £499.95
Merlin Malt 1 frame, 100mm Magura Vidar forks, 2004 Deore, Mavic X221 rims, Magura Julie hydro disc brakes - 19" available.
Pauls Cycles (www.paulscycles.co.uk) - great for deals on previous years models
'03 Giant XTC SE 4, £424.95
'03 Giant NRS 4 £499.95
'03 Giant XTC860 £449.95
Kona Cindercone £449.95
http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/
Great value for their own brand bikes
Merlin Ltd Edition £499.95
Merlin Malt 1 frame, 100mm Magura Vidar forks, 2004 Deore, Mavic X221 rims, Magura Julie hydro disc brakes - 19" available.
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Dan M
Steve,
It looks like the Rainier and XTC-SE3 are the same bike except the Rainier has Shimano disks and SPDs. Even with sales tax the Rainier is less than £400.
The Merlin looks nice, but a budget buster.
Dan
It looks like the Rainier and XTC-SE3 are the same bike except the Rainier has Shimano disks and SPDs. Even with sales tax the Rainier is less than £400.
The Merlin looks nice, but a budget buster.
Dan
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Laurie Saunders
[QUOTEI'm sorry - I'm trying to stay clear of these non-race bike threads, but Fred, you are wrong about derailleurs. My first Dura Ace rear mech has over 10,000 miles on it and it's never even twitched...
] [/QUOTE]
I agree. I shan`t try to comment on off-road machines......I have absolutely no experience of these..I swear by Reynolds 531(road) frames.
My "everday" machine has clocked 5 years at 3500 miles per year on the same `105 mech
Kept clean, and with regular chain changes, it should carry on for a lot longer
Laurie S
] [/QUOTE]
I agree. I shan`t try to comment on off-road machines......I have absolutely no experience of these..I swear by Reynolds 531(road) frames.
My "everday" machine has clocked 5 years at 3500 miles per year on the same `105 mech
Kept clean, and with regular chain changes, it should carry on for a lot longer
Laurie S
Posted on: 02 June 2004 by Steve G
'Cause of all the mud etc. the rear mechs on MTBs aren't likely to last quite that long, but they still last quite a while. My no.3 bike has a Deore rear mech which has done lots of miles on it an on a previous bike and is still going strong. In fact I don't think I've had to replace a rear mech on any of my bikes so far, and I do lots of off-road miles in muddy conditions.
I wash the bikes after use and then spray the mech with GT85 - and that's the all the maintenance they get.
I wash the bikes after use and then spray the mech with GT85 - and that's the all the maintenance they get.
Posted on: 04 June 2004 by Not For Me
The last Mountain Bike I bought was a Specialized Hardrock XC, 19" frame in Charcoal
Like this:
Excellent service from the independent bike shop, sizing advice, test rides, set up, free service, even stayed open late for me to collect it.
First ride was a relevation compared to mey clunky Murray Milestone hybrid bike.
I plan to go on a proper ride tomorrow.
DS
Like this:
Excellent service from the independent bike shop, sizing advice, test rides, set up, free service, even stayed open late for me to collect it.
First ride was a relevation compared to mey clunky Murray Milestone hybrid bike.
I plan to go on a proper ride tomorrow.
DS
Posted on: 05 June 2004 by Mekon
Good choice. My missus still rides her '97 Hardrock Sport most weekdays, and despite neglect and abuse, it's still a rewarding ride. Whenever I've ridden one, I've been struck by how surefooted the handling is.
With all these new bike purchases, a 'best crashes' thread ought to be appearing soon.
With all these new bike purchases, a 'best crashes' thread ought to be appearing soon.
Posted on: 11 June 2004 by Richard Dane
Just to say thank you to everybody who contributed to this thread. Took delivery of my new bike yesterday, a steel frame Marin Bear Valley. What can I say, I have that "first bike" feeling all over again. Couldn't resist taking it out straight away as soon as I got home... absolutely delighted with my new toy!
Posted on: 11 June 2004 by matthewr
Ha! Spot the budget creep
A fine choice though. Marin's steel frame is *ace*.
Matthew
A fine choice though. Marin's steel frame is *ace*.
Matthew