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daroy
USA
54 Posts |
 Posted - 10/26/2003 : 4:23:07 PM
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 Ordered A Stumpjumper, should see it in a week. |
Edited by - daroy on 11/07/2025 10:42:22 PM
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Jay K.
Belgium
84 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2003 : 11:38:19 PM
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Maurice
I'm trying to get into Mountain Biking for the first time, and my guidlines are similar to yours, long crosscountry riding. I also wanted a full suspension bike. Also didn't want to spend lots of $$$, as goal is to save for my dream road bike.
I came across the KONA line and was impressed how they segment their bike lines to specific mt bike subcatagories, how their frames are light and have a good reputation, their price, and that the significant componets are good (though some of the smaller ones aren't, I figure they can be replaced down the road--and the paint jobs are pretty basic.)
I wound up with a Kona Kikapu Deluxe--a xc bike w/ 3 1/2" travel--appx 26 lbs and though I have nothing to compare it to was impressed with the ride on my first time out on the Ridge Trail (except when I had to walk it uphill--where the hell is that built in motor.) The standard Kikapu would have been plenty of bike for me--but the shock and fork, and some other larger components significantly better on the Deluxe.)
Jay
GP-"Just ride baby" |
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Jay K.
Belgium
84 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2003 : 3:40:13 PM
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Their web site is http://www.konaworld.com/kw_index.cfm, including a list of dealers.
I'll submit the vital statistics to you via email.-j |
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starstryke
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2003 : 5:59:01 PM
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Specialized has the best dual suspension design in the world from experience and constant fine tuning, especially if you are looking to get a XC rig.
Other recommendations from experience are/were Yeti, Ritchey, Scott, Cannondale, Giant to name a few, they handle very well on climbs and their descent is based on how well you can, the better you get, any manufacturer listed can keep up. Granted, some of the companies listed are out of business or hard to get (Scott only sells in Europe now).
illegitimi non carborundum |
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bills
5 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2003 : 10:10:24 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by daroy
Hey Pedalers,
Tring to get back in the mountain biking, I'm in the market for a new Mountain bike and have my eye on either a 2004 Specialized Epic Comp or 2004 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Expert Disc. I'm I looking in the right direction? My plans are to just have great long rides with a few cross country races maybe in the future.
Any suggestions?
Anyone have "the hook up" at a dealership?
Thanks for your help,
Maurice J. Daroy
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starstryke
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2003 : 10:25:31 PM
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Encina Cyclery carries Specialized, went down there recently to look at their Lemond line =)
illegitimi non carborundum |
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bills
5 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2003 : 10:27:52 PM
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Maurice,
The 2004 Stumpjumper FSR line has been substantially redisgned and looks very good.
One feature that is key on any dual suspension bike that you are considering is the new rear shock technology that is designed to filter out pedal induced bobbing. I have a Giant VT which has the Manitou SPV (stable platform valve). It works great and is a real improvement over earlier dual suspension designs. The Specialized bikes feature the FOX shocks that have similar technology. As they say, "Highly recomended"
I do not believe that any of our supporting dealers handle Specialized.
From personal experience I can recomend Alameda Bicycle.
www.alamedabicycle.com
I have purchased two bikes there. Smart, friendly staff. Good inventory and they may have demo bikes available. Ask for Gene. |
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Numb Nuts
USA
16 Posts |
Posted - 10/28/2003 : 8:12:22 PM
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Daroy,
I have been watching this thread for a couple of days and have been hesitant to jump in - but I've decided to add my two cents.
There are many considerations when choosing a full suspension MTB bike and they can't easily be reduced to a few words. Ultimately the bike must be right for the rider/buyer and no one else. If you like I will tell you what I ride and why. I can also share with you what other local riders have chosen recently and maybe even suggest why. What I probably couldn't do well is advise you what you should choose.
My advice is find and talk to someone who knows the state of such things and can help you figure out what is best for you - all things considered.
I do not know the fella at Alameda Bike but people I do know say good things about him. I would add to the list of shops to visit Bikes4Life. Simply put - the owner (Chong at 754-8025) of the shop can be found there every day they are open and he is the most competent person I know of when it comes to the question you are asking and cycling stuff in general. My experience with Bikes4Life has been consistently excellent.
Best of luck!
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