Which bike to buy

[scott43]

I mean..it's expensive if you're dropping $3k on a full suspension bike.. Do you need that much bike?

 

[Jersey Skier]

I mean..it's expensive if you're dropping $3k on a full suspension bike.. Do you need that much bike?

I don't think anybody 'needs" anything ever discussed on this forum. These are all first world problems. But as someone who owns a retail bicycle shop, yes, everybody needs one.

 

[Wilhelmson]

Look for something on sale in the $700 to $1,000 range. If you want to defer some of the cost find a used 26 and upgrade as you go (not the preferred method but still an option).

 

[luliski]

I own the Marin Hawk Hill mentioned above. It's an entry-level full-suspension bike that has received good reviews. I've been happy with it (riding at Annadel, Tahoe area, Granite Bay, Rockville), but after demoing a Specialized Stumpjumper last summer I really want an upgrade! The Stumpjumper I demoed retailed for about $3000, IIRC. I am not at all an advanced mountain biker, but I do end up on lots of rocky trails where I ride. I guess it depends on where you're going to ride the most.

 

[Lauren]

I forgot that part!
The Spark line is what I'm looking at.

I think the Spark line is a solid XC-style bike, with a bit of versatility...and with the 740 line you're getting pretty decent components. You're not getting a 1x12 drivetrain which is what the trends (even in lower components) seem to be going towards. But if you don't feel the need to have the top of the line, latest and greatest. I think you're looking at a pretty awesome bike, especially if you can get a good deal on it. I would expect something 2 years old to be 50% off (if brand new). You mention you're replacing a XC bike, so probably good going that route. If you're looking for something with a little extra travel, better for going downhill and a bit more playful all around...I preferred the Genius for that.

 

[Andy Mink]

That is so funny and true, it could be applied to skiing as well.

It's already happened to me for skiing. I do want to start riding but I'm a little afraid of the monster that's within!

 

[Andy Mink]

Are there any places for bikes that are comparable to SkiEssentials?

 

[scott43]

Are there any places for bikes that are comparable to SkiEssentials?

As far as discounts go? Discounts on bikes are harder to come by..markup is lower. There are, however, direct-to-consumer online bike mfg's now. Like Canyon... There are some really knowledgeable people on here..Josh..Erik..TomK. They have a lot of US knowledge.

 

[martyg]

We have a few of these left in the shop. Damn stupendous deal. Carbon frame bike for $2K +.

Call Mountain Bike Specialists at 970-247-4066.

Here's an article on our shop.

 

[Plai]

We have a few of these left in the shop. Damn stupendous deal. Carbon frame bike for $2K +.

Call Mountain Bike Specialists at 970-247-4066.

Here's an article on our shop.

That's a steal. Got any in medium and what would it take to ship?

 

[martyg]

That's a steal. Got any in medium and what would it take to ship?

I was in the shop for about 15 minutes today. Hit them up at the number above. Everyone there is superb. Let them know that I directed you.

 

[EricG]

I forgot that part!
The Spark line is what I'm looking at.

They spark series are great xc bikes, But make sure it fits you correct. Even at a great price, nothing sucks worth than a crappy fitting bike. I do some tech consulting and rep work for a Ti & Carbon bike manufacturer and the most common thing I see if people buying the wrong size bikes. Some shops are better than others with insuring people are on the right sized bikes.

 

[scott43]

That Specialized Epic Comp Carbon is a steal and a heckuva bike. I wouldn't look back at $2400 if you can get your proper size and you're looking for an XC.

 

[Tom K.]

That's a great price on a VERY racy bike. The rear brain is a cool piece of tehnology. Keep in mind that it does require regular service that cannot be done by your local shop. Off to Fox it must go. Not a deal killer, especially at that price, but something to keep in mind.

Also, to reiterate, the Epic is a VERY racy bike.

 

[AmyPJ]

Are there any places for bikes that are comparable to SkiEssentials?

Buy Bryce's bike He's getting ready to sell his 2018 Trek Fuel EX 9.8. It's a 19.5.
He sells them after one season. They are maintained very well (he worked several summers in the shop doing bikes, then did skis all winter.)

I'm a big believer in a bike being a big investment that's worth it.

 

[Andy Mink]

Buy Bryce's bike He's getting ready to sell his 2018 Trek Fuel EX 9.8. It's a 19.5.
He sells them after one season. They are maintained very well (he worked several summers in the shop doing bikes, then did skis all winter.)

I'm a big believer in a bike being a big investment that's worth it.

I'll have @Philpug and @Tricia swing by. JK, I don't even know what kind of bike I'm looking for or what size I need. Keep me posted, though, as it might work for me. I honestly don't think I need that much bike yet. The hardest part for me is getting motivated enough to take it out of the garage!

 

[Tricia]

@Andy Mink That Trek is a really nice bike, but I think a 19.5 may be a little big for you.

 

[AmyPJ]

I'll have @Philpug and @Tricia swing by. JK, I don't even know what kind of bike I'm looking for or what size I need. Keep me posted, though, as it might work for me. I honestly don't think I need that much bike yet. The hardest part for me is getting motivated enough to take it out of the garage!

Trust me, a really nice riding bike makes it pretty motivating to get out and ride it. It's just that much more fun to ride!
I can't remember how tall you are??

 

[Andy Mink]

Trust me, a really nice riding bike makes it pretty motivating to get out and ride it. It's just that much more fun to ride!
I can't remember how tall you are??

5'10"ish but short legs. 32" inseam.

 

[AmyPJ]

5'10"ish but short legs. 32" inseam.

You could go 18.5 or 19.5. Anyway, get on out there one way or another-it's so much fun (even if it's an ass kicking on the climbs!)