BeaverBrewer
Active Member
I just did the craigslist route after riding a hybrid bike for a year. I got an old fixed up bianchi for 200 bucks and it was worth it. riding is a lot more enjoyable and its fun to tinker around with as well.
So I go to get a new chain today, and I start looking at the Trek and the Gary Fisher bikes. I really fell in love the GF Tarpon on the floor... it was marked down to $325 from nearly $400.
Are these bikes worth it? I really want to get more serious about my biking. I am sure the dude at the shop would say yes, otherwise he cannot sell anything. So, what say you?
Gary Fisher Tarpon - a1cyclery.com
mtbr.com has a pretty extensive list of reviews for mountain bikes.
I personally love Gary Fisher Bikes, I have an 08 HiFi Deluxe and was well worth its price tag. That bike is a pretty vanilla entry level bike, not to say it isn't a good bike but, you will notice a difference between that bike and some lead sled from wally mart. It will be a much more enjoyable ride to say the least. It'll give you a chance to evaluate if mtb'ing is something you want to pursue.
The important thing is make sure you talk to some one who is knows how to fit a bike! if you get a cheap bike it may be due to the fact it is a small frame and they can't get rid of it. Too big or small will make for a miserable ride.
I live in roadie central and had a hard time getting fitted for a mtb. ended up driving up to atlanta from Melbourne Fl to get the price I wanted and fitted properly.
If you can be patient, between october and january, bike shops will start cutting prices on that years models to make room for next years.
Also, people have a pref of one brand over another, GF, Trek, Kona, Gt, etc etc.. they are all great bikes if you get it from a reputable dealer. The best bike is the one you happen to be saddled on so go out and get an epic ride on edit- Crap! how could I forget Specialized!
edit- Crap! how could I forget Specialized!
I currently have a Motobecane road bike and love it. The bike is very well built and the components are the same you would get anywhere else. However, I have been riding a long time and know the geometry I was looking for and was sure the bike would fit me and my riding style.
I would also recommend going to a local shop (with good staff) and have them help you find the correct bike for you. It makes a world of difference.
Jason, while the shocks on the seat post and the front fork may provide comfort, I don't think I'd want them on a training bike. You lose some energy to the back tire from shock absorption.Thought I'd bump this thread, since I'm finally getting off my hump and researching bikes again. After a lot of consideration, I reevaluated what I wanted out of a bike - something to keep the legs moving in the off-season for general fitness and a commuter. A friend of mine who does a lot of cycling suggested a hybrid since I have 10-20 mile road loops in mind for my training rides, and it keeps extra equipment (i.e road bikes shoes) to a minimum. Perhaps at some stage, I'll look for a more serious road bike.
This one keeps catching my eye.
Jason, while the shocks on the seat post and the front fork may provide comfort, I don't think I'd want them on a training bike. You lose some energy to the back tire from shock absorption.
Check this out. This might be more than you're looking for, but you'll be much happier with it or something similar on 20+ mile training rides.
You don't need anything fancy, but you're too young to go all granny suspension on us.
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