Help on choosing a bike

newrider

newrider

New Member
I am getting back into riding after a long time. I started researching bikes and what would fit my needs and need some feedback/advice. I am planning on splitting my time between road and off road. About 70% road and 30% off-road initially,which will hopefully work its way to be about 50% each. I would like feedback on getting a pure mountain bike, such as the trek 4300/4500, and swapping wheels as opposed to getting a hybrid such as the gary fisher kaitai. Also, wanted feedback on which brand is better between the gary fisher, trek, giant and specialized. From what I understand the gary fisher and the trek are the same maker and basic parts. I am looking to spend between $450 and $600.
Finally wanted to get feedback on bike shops and experiences anyone may have had. I went to planet bike and they seemed OK - I was thinking about checking out Halter's cycles as well. Thanks in advance.
 
+1 for Halters....and as far as all your other questions your best bet will be to pick the brains of the folks at the shop, and try out some bikes to see what feels right for you. Happy shopping...and welcome back to riding!
 
Used??

Thanks for the info. I will definitely check them out. Just curious do you think it makes sense to buy a used bike so I can "get more" fr my money. I was thinking about craigslist or some other boards. My only hesitation is I am not sure of he mechanics and what to look for.
 
newrider said:
I was thinking about craigslist or some other boards. My only hesitation is I am not sure of he mechanics and what to look for.
Click to expand...

In my opinion a used bike is only a bargain for the trained eye. Fit is also a very large factor that is difficult to judge if you don't have the knowledge. Your LBS will be the most valuable resource for getting you on the right size bike. Some shops will also fit you to your new purchase.
 
I bought a used GT Avalanche 1.0. It was that or $2500 for a Cannondale. I bought it to see how much I would ride, before investing some bigger coin for a better bike.

JMHO, it workes for me to ride the GT, then get an idea of what I really wanted.

Best of luck.

I'm still riding the GT.
 
This is a bit out of budget but I have a good plan.

Go for the F29er 4 from C-dale ($999)

Add some hybrid tires (they are the same bead diameter) and presto! you have a hybrid, or road going bike.

I can't come up with a good alternative for $600 that will be such a great all around bike.

http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/09/cusa/model-9FS294.html

This one IS made in the USA too!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom