The MTB thread

[northwind]

Today, I decided to see what happens if I do my 10-mile training loop on my downhill bike. Shockingly enough, the answer is it takes a very long time, and afterwards my entire body feels like it's on fire. Quite a good workout I suppose...

[Venom]

Inspirational video of Tom Wheeler chatting about the modifications needed like steering dampeners and MotoGP thumb brakes to his bike with so he could keep riding after paralysing his right arm in a crash. I'm in awe that he still wants to ride.

http://vimeo.com/35199725

Part 1 and 2 about where talks about he started riding, the crash, injuries, surgery and progress since.

http://vimeo.com/27527089
http://vimeo.com/28682427

[Nobbylad]

Are these any good (for the price)?

For the wife=>

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_82 1657_langId_-1?cm_mmc=System_Generated-_-Stock_Notification-_-blank-_-blank


For me =>

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_82 1651_categoryId_165534_langId_-1?cm_sp=Intelligent_Offer-_-Product_Details_Zone_1-_-Blank&iozone=PDPz1

[Luckypants]

Be fine for town and gravel cycle paths and the like. They would struggle off-road or on anything other than blue/green routes at trail centres. I would recommend going and having a sit on them to get an idea of fit, weight and comfort before buying off the net - nothing worse than buying a bike and it not been used because the saddle cuts you in half or something.

[Nobbylad]

Cheers Mike - tbh they'd most likely only ever be used on road, with the odd grassy knoll/campsite every now and then. We both had MTB's until hers went missing. My eldest lad uses my (pretty carp) MTB and we wanted to get bikes again last year but couldn't stretch to 2 at once.

With the reductions at Halfrauds, I was tempted, but really wanted an idea as to whether they're worth the sale price, or if I'd get bigger bang for the same buck somewhere else.

There's a Halfrauds 2 mins away so trying them out is no bother.

[JamesMio]

If they're 99% for the road, I personally wouldn't bother with a mountain bike. For £200 you should be able to pick up a half-decent budget/mid spec used road bike which will be MUCH easier to ride on tarmac.

Seriously, my everyday hack is an old aluminium mountain bike, with a half-road tyre (big centre line in the tread), and even that is hard work compared to a road bike.

[speedplay]

I got rid of my road bike due to the roads being so crap these days (some roads round here need 140mm fork!).
Hybrid is the best of both worlds for a general pooter round and can be used on canal paths, rough tracks as well.

[Drew Carey]

I used Lily's Hybrid to commute to work for a couple of weeks.....that was bad enough on the roads!!! I ended up going back to my single speed hardtail MTB as much more comfier on the roads. I actually prefer my 10 mile commute more with 1 gear than with a whole load to chose from!!!

If it was me, I would look at seeing if you can get ok-ish MTB on the cheap and then buy Hybrid or road tyres for it. More comfier and if you do want to take it offroad - swap tyres, job done. Just my 2p's worth anyhow.

[Nobbylad]

If they're 99% for the road, I personally wouldn't bother with a mountain bike. For £200 you should be able to pick up a half-decent budget/mid spec used road bike which will be MUCH easier to ride on tarmac.

Seriously, my everyday hack is an old aluminium mountain bike, with a half-road tyre (big centre line in the tread), and even that is hard work compared to a road bike.

But the links I posted were to Hybrids, not MTBs :confused:

For the price, am I getting good spec kit, or am I better going to eBay?

[mattSV]

But the links I posted were to Hybrids, not MTBs :confused:

For the price, am I getting good spec kit, or am I better going to eBay?

But this IS the MTB thread ;)

For £200, they look like good vfm - discs would be nice, but not necessary for road only use. For what you want to use them for they will be fine.

[Nobbylad]

Thanks Matt.

I didn't fancy starting a Hybrid thread ;)

[AndyBrad]

ive got a hybrid (gt zum2) and its great on the roads and paths. Its a lot nicer and smoother than an mtb with semi road tyres (thinner rubber) it does feel different froman mtb though as it finds ruts and bumps easier. however stick 2" wide rubber on it (max it will take) and it has a good go at being a mtb but its deffo not as good off road.

[stewie]

I was reading somewhere that cyclo cross bikes are making a big comeback and offer the best of both worlds, loads of grip (dependant on tyres of course) off road and road race style bars which are comfier on the back, does this sound right ?

[Drew Carey]

They are making a comeback and most manufacturers are doing them. They are not really suited to trail riding or severe off road (from what I have seen), but are apparently very good for XC type riding.

Personally, as I am quite a heavy chap, I would be too worried about breaking it somehow, as I am not very forgiving on my bike - hence for me, I have an All Mountain bike that is built to take knocks.

I believe Badger uses one to commute now......from what I remember (especially since his MTB frame snapped).

[maviczap]

I was reading somewhere that cyclo cross bikes are making a big comeback and offer the best of both worlds, loads of grip (dependant on tyres of course) off road and road race style bars which are comfier on the back, does this sound right ?

Depends on where you ride them, cyclocross bikes are usually raced on grass or not too rocky courses, somewhere you don't need suspension.

Yes, 700c wheels roll better on the road than MTB tyres, but are challenged by off road work.

My MTB wheels with slick road tyres rolls along quite nicely, but is heavier than my road bike. Plus I run out of gears because of the smaller MTB chainset.

Whatever you buy its going to be a bit of a compromise, as no bike will do all disciplines well, but can do most, at a pinch.

[stewie]

trouble is I'm not able to buy a newer bike, I have an old GT Timberline from about 97/98 with no suspension, think of upgrading that in the short term, dont want to spend a lot, bang some newish front forks on it new bars and attach some tassles on the bar ends cos I ride like such a girl, job done :D

[trail guru]

Cyclocross bikes started re-appearing a couple of years ago. Most of the major manufacturers are making them. There are aslo designs that mix and match various elements of cyclocross with trail bike and road bike frame geometry and groupsets. So there's plenty of choice.

Cyclocross bikes are versatile. They make good commuting bikes, good touring bikes (many come with braze-ons) and good off-road bikes (providing you stick to tracks). With front suspension, discs and straight bars they're good for cross-country too, plus the larger wheel size decreases rolling resistance over rough stuff. Pre mountain bikes, cyclocross and road bikes were used off-road (called rough-stuff in them days) but there was a lot more carrying involved.

[stewie]

Cyclocross bikes started re-appearing a couple of years ago. Most of the major manufacturers are making them. There are aslo designs that mix and match various elements of cyclocross with trail bike and road bike frame geometry and groupsets. So there's plenty of choice.

Cyclocross bikes are versatile. They make good commuting bikes, good touring bikes (many come with braze-ons) and good off-road bikes (providing you stick to tracks). With front suspension, discs and straight bars they're good for cross-country too, plus the larger wheel size decreases rolling resistance over rough stuff. Pre mountain bikes, cyclocross and road bikes were used off-road (called rough-stuff in them days) but there was a lot more carrying involved.
Thanks, just perusing ebay to spot some sus forks, Im not hardcore just want a bit of fun off road but not too sure what I'm looking for, just want a reasonable shock for a decent price really.

[Venom]

Thanks, just perusing ebay to spot some sus forks, Im not hardcore just want a bit of fun off road but not too sure what I'm looking for, just want a reasonable shock for a decent price really.

Just make sure your frame can take a suspension fork. Most are longer than a rigid fork and will affect the steering and stress on the frame. Try
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/ for advice. An 80mm sus fork is probably what you're looking for. It's probably easier getting a cheap 2nd hand entry level hardtail bike with front sus forks off ebay.

[stewie]

Just make sure your frame can take a suspension fork. Most are longer than a rigid fork and will affect the steering and stress on the frame. Try
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/ for advice. An 80mm sus fork is probably what you're looking for. It's probably easier getting a cheap 2nd hand entry level hardtail bike with front sus forks off ebay.

Yeah good point actually, by the time Ive faffed about with it I could have probably sourced a better spec later model, I had the chance of GT avalanche 1.0 the other week as well #-o

[Drew Carey]

I was going to ask if you got the Avalanche but you obviously didn't. Shame, as would have made a great base position.

Edit - looking on Fleabay, for about £200 you can pick up some fairly decent second hand hardtails.

[stewie]

I was going to ask if you got the Avalanche but you obviously didn't. Shame, as would have made a great base position.

Edit - looking on Fleabay, for about £200 you can pick up some fairly decent second hand hardtails.
not yet, seller's readvertised it though so may have to make a dash for the ATM :)

[Drew Carey]

not yet, seller's readvertised it though so may have to make a dash for the ATM :)

Do you know what forks are on it?

[stewie]

Not sure, rock shox ?

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa125/wyoming95/GTAvalanche.jpg

[Drew Carey]

How much is he looking for? Looking, think they might be RST forks unless someone else can tell. Or are they Judy's???? Mechanical discs rather than hydraulic - not always a bad thing but hydraulic would be better.

You got a budget in mind or is it just the cheaper the better?

[stewie]

He's looking in the region of £100 and I just need something to help keep me fit without trashing my old man's knees ;)

[Drew Carey]

For that price i would say deffo. With a good bit of maintenance will be cracking.

[Drew Carey]

Just checked they are judy's. For that price you wont get anywhere near the spec, you would only end up with a cheap halfords own brand etc which are naff. If parts need changing, its a decent enough frame to update on.

[stewie]

Just trying to get hold of him right now :)

[the_lone_wolf]

I can't believe I'm not subscribed here?!?!?!


Anyway, just done the first trip after getting the new car...

V70 + Thule kit + GF + dog = fun times on the downs... :mrgreen:

Fifteen minutes from bare roof bars to cycles securely mounted and dog in the boot - awesome

Anyone here not know about the February cycling weekend in Wales yet???

:bounce:

[Venom]

Trawling through the web I noticed Guy Martin (the motorbike racer, not a randomer with the same name) got a respectable 60th out of 234 finishers a few days ago.

http://www.hitthenorth.net/news/results-2/

[maviczap]

He's a fit bugger isn't he. He did that ultra tough MTB race in Austria didn't he, I forget what it was called.

[Drew Carey]

Howdy all MTBers.......I need to ask a question re colour choices as currently I cannot make my mind up. I know it is a very personal thing, but wanted to get people's view.....I am spending quite a bit of cash next week on bits......but, still can't decide on colour........

Sooooooooooo, this is what I am ordering;

Merlin built Stans Flow on Hope Pro 2 Hubs
Hope Skewer & Hope Seatpost collar (for new rs reverb)
Sram Redwin Red PG990 Cassette

The thing is, my bike is as per the below, yet, what I cannot decide is whether I should get the hubs, skewer & collar in the red that Hope do their products in.......or if I should stick with just black. Currently, the only red remaining on the bike is the FSR Suspension arm - would red look in keeping, or would it look rubbish (as would not be a perfect colour match? Should I just stick with all black?

Thoughts please. :D

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1176/5141088951_5ed0c4337d.jpg
http://www.koo-bikes.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/h/o/hopepro2evorearred.jpg_1.jpg

[maviczap]

Black is the new red or is it the other way round

I can't decide, they look nice in red

[Drew Carey]

They do look nice in red....which is what is appealing......having a bit of bling (lol).....

Then on the other hand I am not 100% sure if having a bit of red here and there will look right. On the other hand, if I went for black the whole bike would look similar black colour with the exception on the FSR part.......plus in the future, colour matching black to a different frame in years to come may be easier.

Arrrrgggghhhhhhhh......choices choices choices.

[Venom]

He's a fit bugger isn't he. He did that ultra tough MTB race in Austria didn't he, I forget what it was called.

Bit of googling pulled up his own blog and the Megavalanch

http://www.guymartinracing.co.uk/?cat=1&paged=2

200km, yep, he is a fit bugger.



Merlin built Stans Flow on Hope Pro 2 Hubs
Hope Skewer & Hope Seatpost collar (for new rs reverb)
Sram Redwin Red PG990 Cassette


Thoughts please. :D



Drew, as you know I've got Hope hubs, stem and headset in red, Raceface bars in red, and the frame is red.

The different shades aren't noticeable from distance, also yours would be pretty far apart, up to you how close you inspect. A red seatpost collar might be a bit too much though. ;) Red hubs with red suspension linkage would be a yes. It'd individualise your bike a little and draw attention to the fact you have Pro IIs.

[Drew Carey]

Cheers Gary, will have a think about that.....might be a good idea getting seatpost clamp in black as see what you mean, would be a little too different...... but getting the hubs, skewer and cassette spider in red could work. Ummmmmmm, more thinking needed.

I'm not too concerned about drawing attention to having Pro2's......everyone can hear them from 5 miles away anyway!!!!!

I think I may just bight the bullet and get the red hubs only, but get skewer and collar in black. Anyone else got any views???

[speedyctr]

I agree with what Venom say really. I have a 2010 zesty 314 so know all about red anodized bits lol!
I have changed my seat collar for a black one and if i get hope hubs I'll get black but think you good either way.

[Drew Carey]

I have a 2010 zesty 314 so know all about red anodized bits lol!
I have changed my seat collar for a black one and if i get hope hubs I'll get black but think you good either way.

Haha, just googled it and looked at a pic - that seat colour really does stand out!! Thats deffo made my mind up on that part, will deffo be black, as well as the QR Skewer.......think I may take a punt and get the hubs in red to just be a bit different.

Cheers all of you for your views. Now to just wait for payday and start a spending!!! :D

[speedyctr]

http://img.tapatalk.com/5c18f044-067f-940d.jpg looks like this now. (if pic uploaded) Chain device going on this week. :)

[1210tech]

Howdy all MTBers.......I need to ask a question re colour choices as currently I cannot make my mind up. I know it is a very personal thing, but wanted to get people's view.....I am spending quite a bit of cash next week on bits......but, still can't decide on colour........

Sooooooooooo, this is what I am ordering;

Merlin built Stans Flow on Hope Pro 2 Hubs
Hope Skewer & Hope Seatpost collar (for new rs reverb)
Sram Redwin Red PG990 Cassette

The thing is, my bike is as per the below, yet, what I cannot decide is whether I should get the hubs, skewer & collar in the red that Hope do their products in.......or if I should stick with just black. Currently, the only red remaining on the bike is the FSR Suspension arm - would red look in keeping, or would it look rubbish (as would not be a perfect colour match? Should I just stick with all black?

Thoughts please. :D

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1176/5141088951_5ed0c4337d.jpg
http://www.koo-bikes.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/h/o/hopepro2evorearred.jpg_1.jpg

Here's a curveball Drew, looking at the colour of your frame maybe the hubs in the gun metal colour would look good...... :)

[Drew Carey]

Awwwwwwwwwwwww damn you!!!!!! Gun metal Could look good, the frame is a little darker in reality than that pic. Grrrrrrrrrr........choices.

[Drew Carey]

Have been thinking, despite my better half also agreeing on the Gunsmoke hubs.......I think the gunsmoke colour is too light / too grey - So I think it wouldn't look right.

Black would be easier to adapt to future frame colours etc - however, my heart is still saying red as it looks so shiny shiny!!!! :-D

So on that basis, I think I am now decided on black collar, black skewer and then the red hubs. Nice bit of bright colour will contrast well with the mostly balck and very dark grey frame (its a lot darker in reality than the pics).

Cheers all for thoughts.

[Venom]

Have been thinking, despite my better half also agreeing on the Gunsmoke hubs.......I think the gunsmoke colour is too light / too grey - So I think it wouldn't look right.

Black would be easier to adapt to future frame colours etc - however, my heart is still saying red as it looks so shiny shiny!!!! :-D

So on that basis, I think I am now decided on black collar, black skewer and then the red hubs. Nice bit of bright colour will contrast well with the mostly balck and very dark grey frame (its a lot darker in reality than the pics).

Cheers all for thoughts.

That's exactly the colour scheme I myself would have opted for. My jedi mind tricks seem to be working. ;) Looking forward to seeing your shiny bits in the future.

[Drew Carey]

Well I bit the bullet and ordered everything this morning. Took advantage of Merlin's 10% off deal.......getting the Hope hubs in red.

Total shopping list;

Red Hope Pro 2 Hubs handbuilt on Stan's Flow rims with ACI DB Black spokes.
Rockshok Reverb.
Hope Seatpost Collar (Bolt not QR) in black
Hope Rear QR Skewer in black
Sram PG990 9 Speed casette. (Redwin red)
New PC991 chain
Rim Tape
Crud Catcher
NeoGuard
Some new grease

And a hat!!! lol

Now just to sit back and wait for all the shiny shiny bits to turn up. Will post up a piccy of completed bike when done.

Soooooooooo excited.....like waiting for Xmas to arrive!!! :-D

[speedyctr]

Nice! :p post pics when done.
I have been toying with the idea of changing my fork lowers to 15mm QR axle.
I have since seen that there is a 9mm bolt thru which is thicker than the std qr and fits on std forks. Also i could have a 10mm in the rear. I would need new wheels/hubs like these (http://superstar.tibolts.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=40&products_id=496) from SSC. Do these axles improve stiffness to warrant this upgrade? Going to Glentress in Aug so would like to "beef" it up if you know what i mean!!

[Drew Carey]

Well I have the 20mm Maxle lite on my set of RS Pikes. Apparently it is one of the stiffest setups for a 140mm travel front fork you can get.

It would certainly make it a lot stiffer if you converted yours too. The Superstar packages are supposed to be fairly decent - I believe Northwind (who is occasionaly on here but is also a mod on bikeradar) had some.

Similar to the Hope wheels I have gone for in that you can convert the axle options.

For the rear, I still have QR and I am a heavy guy who is not delicate on my riding etc - never really had any issues with the rear end of the bike.

[Viney]

Afternoon Lycra Louts

Tyres! I have a Cannondale Hybrid and will be going out with a couple of mates. The route that they do includes a couple of woodland tracks. So whats the best tyre for this kinda thing? I was thinking Cyclocross or something similar or can i fit normal MTB tyres? I currently have Maxxis Detenator road tyres (26x1.5). What sort of sixe can i get on the rim?

Ta muchly in advance loike

[Drew Carey]

Hi Mr Viney......ain't seen you in aaaaaaaaaagess.

I would say any Cyclocross tyre would suit. With mountain bike tyres you would be looking at a 2.1 * 26......I think 2.1 would probably be too wide for the rims, and any corner could see them pop off.

Whats the exact bike you have got?

[Viney]

Drew dude. Been working for once in my life. I have a 2008 badboy 650 (who names this stuff). So i could get away with some 1.9's? And when did cycle tyres go up?!?! Some of them are dearer than a tyre for Doris.

Sent from my HTC Desire using Tapatalk

[G]

Well I bit the bullet and ordered everything this morning. Took advantage of Merlin's 10% off deal.......getting the Hope hubs in red.

Total shopping list;

Red Hope Pro 2 Hubs handbuilt on Stan's Flow rims with ACI DB Black spokes.
Rockshok Reverb.
Hope Seatpost Collar (Bolt not QR) in black
Hope Rear QR Skewer in black
Sram PG990 9 Speed casette. (Redwin red)
New PC991 chain
Rim Tape
Crud Catcher
NeoGuard
Some new grease

And a hat!!! lol

Now just to sit back and wait for all the shiny shiny bits to turn up. Will post up a piccy of completed bike when done.

Soooooooooo excited.....like waiting for Xmas to arrive!!! :-D

Blimey, you've been spending Mr Carey. Make sure you get a 2012 reverb, my 2011 isn't even 6 months old and is playing up.

I'm probably going to be blowing a **** load of cash on a cane creek double barrel, 2012 tapered 160mm Fox Float 36 FIT RLC with Kashima and 20QR and 20mm axle adapter for my front pro 2.

Will be keeping my Factory RP23 and Float 32 RLCs and swap them around depending on where I'm going.

We just need to get you back out on yours now when you get time :-P see if we can keep up with you now since all you single speed commuting action ;-)

[Drew Carey]

Mate you will still be killing me. Problem is that road use is a doddle in comparison......plus, still not lost weight as enjoying food too much! Lol. So not picking up pace etc.

And according to the add it is the 2012 model. Cant wait to get all the bits.

[Venom]

Afternoon Lycra Louts

Tyres! I have a Cannondale Hybrid and will be going out with a couple of mates. The route that they do includes a couple of woodland tracks. So whats the best tyre for this kinda thing? I was thinking Cyclocross or something similar or can i fit normal MTB tyres? I currently have Maxxis Detenator road tyres (26x1.5). What sort of sixe can i get on the rim?

Ta muchly in advance loike

Hi Viney, me old china.

Lycra louts are in the road cycling thread ;)

How rough are these woodland tracks? Like Drew mentioned any cyclocross tyres would be capable enough unless you hit a small mire.

If this is your bike (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/cannondale/bad-boy-650-2008-hybrid-bike-ec000106#features)
then it's got Mavic XM117 rims which can fit any size from 26x1.00 to 26x2.10
http://www.mavic.com/en/product/rims/mountain-bike/rims/XM-117

The other thing you may also have to consider is clearance room between the larger tyre and seatstays.

[Paul the 6th]

Mate you will still be killing me. Problem is that road use is a doddle in comparison......plus, still not lost weight as enjoying food too much! Lol. So not picking up pace etc.

And according to the add it is the 2012 model. Cant wait to get all the bits.

Eyup guys,

think I popped my head in here a while ago but not been back for a long while. Similar problem to drew (hi drew xxx), I can knock out 10 miles on the road in under an hour easy peasy...

A few of us from the pennine massive went to dalby forest to do the red route in june last year and oh my days I thought I was going to die within the first 15 minutes of up hill climbing. I had no choice so just kept going........ for 19 miles. Think I got back to the finish about 30 minutes after everyone else lol.

This time though I want to enjoy it a bit more - what sort of training should I be doing? Need to get some weight off anyway and have been in the gym over the last 2 weeks, but would interval training be good for proper MTB action? Or should I just focus on getting my weight off and it will follow naturally?

[Drew Carey]

Howdy pal. Xxx

From my expereince so far, lose weight and get out on the mtb more. Only solution. If you fancy a weekend riding with a like minded fatty (meant with love) then give me a buzz and can sort something. Least we would both have company when shattered and walking up hills as have no juice left!! Lol

for me its still fun as love all the downhill parts on trails. When I did Dalby with G and DMC I nearly threw the towel in.....but kept at it as they spurred me on. Ended up doing the full route.

[Venom]

This time though I want to enjoy it a bit more - what sort of training should I be doing? Need to get some weight off anyway and have been in the gym over the last 2 weeks, but would interval training be good for proper MTB action? Or should I just focus on getting my weight off and it will follow naturally?

I can't ride hills either.

Losing weight with interval training, Luckypants does spin classes and cycles a lot and he tackles hills no problems or something like this would help.

http://www.mtb-marathon.co.uk/training/16.php

[Paul the 6th]

It's ok for fat people to make jokes about other fat people drew ;) it's when skinny people make fat jokes. That's basically as bad as racism. :D

check this out man: http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=175240

and yeah we do need to have a looong over due catch up!

[DMC]

It's ok for fat people to make jokes about other fat people drew ;) it's when skinny people make fat jokes. That's basically as bad as racism. :D

My dad's a big fat black dude, I get away with rippin it out of him 8)

[G]

My new goodies turned up Friday...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/427146_10150611231449837_502519836_8744498_1158271 732_n.jpg

Can't wait to get it all fitted so I can go out at the weekend and destroy some rocky descents in the Peaks. Float 36 FIT RLC forks with Kashima and Cane Creek Double Barrel both custom tuned by TF Tuned, they cost double my original Cube MTB :smt007

Howdy pal. Xxx

From my expereince so far, lose weight and get out on the mtb more. Only solution. If you fancy a weekend riding with a like minded fatty (meant with love) then give me a buzz and can sort something. Least we would both have company when shattered and walking up hills as have no juice left!! Lol

for me its still fun as love all the downhill parts on trails. When I did Dalby with G and DMC I nearly threw the towel in.....but kept at it as they spurred me on. Ended up doing the full route.

Yep saddle time is the best thing for improving, Gym is boring and doesn't help as much as forcing yourself through the pain barrier and up a hill.

[northwind]

ZOMG, I just bought a cyclocross bike. I'm practically a roadie now :smt085

[G]

ZOMG, I just bought a cyclocross bike. I'm practically a roadie now :smt085

Beasty, for recreation? or are you going to race it? I like watching the racing clips on youtube of cyclocross racers bunny hoping logs :confused::confused:

I'm torn at the minute, on the one hand I've made my Five a heavy beast for the Peaks and Alps as we've entered the Passportes du Soliel... but on the other hand we've entered the Manx End2End... which i don't fancy doing on a 160mm all mountain bike.

Need to buy a carbon whippet I think lol

[northwind]

Well, coincidentally it was in the Halfords sale and looked pretty, and I got a new job. £400 it was, a Voodoo Limba- picking it up on Wednesday.

http://www.hartsburgcycledepot.com/tn_08_limba_lg.jpg
(not mine, mine has some different parts on it)

Might possibly do some racing but tbh that looks like hard work! The spec's ridiculous for the money so I'll try it offroad and get some slicks for it too, I want to give road riding a crack just for fitness since I've got some big rides this summer (Tour de Ben Nevis is 68km offroad in a day, can't do that yet :smt103 ) PPDS looks awesome btw, I'm eyeing up the mega for next year but I'd love to give that a go too.

If all else fails, they sell used for more than I paid for it, can't go too wrong.

[G]

The mega would be awesome, starting on a glacier, crazy start line.

I've entered a few things that I'm not capable of yet just so I actually push myself fitness wise.

[Luckypants]

It's been posted before, but this is just MENTAL!!!!!

http://vimeo.com/9970489

[G]

My bike in it's new Peaks/Alps spec goodness, mmmm

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/404879_10150618623754837_502519836_8765467_1917019 249_n.jpg

[Drew Carey]

I'm all excited.....my new bits have all been delivered to Lily's work.....so when I get home I know what I am doing tonight!!! Will post up pics......I am like a kid at Christmas!! :D

G - Liking the new suspension.....how much heavier is the rear shock just out of interest?

[G]

G - Liking the new suspension.....how much heavier is the rear shock just out of interest?

The 2012 Factory RP23 weighs 208g, CCDB weighs in at about 450g... so the equivelent of a good poo.

To be honest even off the bike the difference wasn't that noticable held side by side.

I'm not going for a light bike anyway, or I wouldn't have gone for the five lol, should climb better with the CCDB despit the weight increase. My spec has gone from a high spec Five Pro, to a very high spec Five AM. The standard Five AM has quite a low spec (brakes/Chainset/Gears).

[Paul the 6th]

Yo guys, just wondering:

What's everyone's take on riding 'wild' trails on your own? By wild I mean 'not a conventional trail centre' but more paths up in the Yorkshire dales? Is it generally advised against? Or do you lot disappear for a few hours at a time without a second thought?

Obviously I'm not Aaron ralston, and the dales isn't the darkest depths of the Nevada dessert, but I've heard off road (motorised I.e. Ktm & tenere stylee) riders talk about how you should never really go exploring on your own in case of an off/getting stuck etc. does the same apply to MTB? Or am I being a big nancy?

[Drew Carey]

Sooooo, got all the bits today and added everything, really chuffed.

Apologies for the size of piccies.....here's what ive added;

Reverb with Charge Spoon saddle and hope bolt seatclamp.
Hope Pro 2 in red on Stans Flows with Minnion front & High Roller rear.
Pikes fully rebuilt by TFTuned with MoCo added and firm spring.
Sram PG990 In Redwin red with PC991 chain, Hope rear skewer. Nex X7 Mech.
Raceface Ride double and bash, Xpedo pedals and Stinger chain device.
Hussefelt DH bar and stem.

Basically only frame, shock, brakes, headset and shifters are original! Really pleased with it now. Its not light, but never wanted it to be.

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/9939/1330038661975.jpg
http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/7968/1330038780001.jpg
http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/8098/1330038839808.jpg

[Paul the 6th]

That's is sex.

Wow.

What model is it? And how much is it worth in current trim if you don't mind me asking? Looks absolutely spectacular drew!

[Drew Carey]

That's is sex.

Wow.

What model is it? And how much is it worth in current trim if you don't mind me asking? Looks absolutely spectacular drew!

Cheers pal, I is pleased. Its a Pitch Comp 2010, hence the XFusion shock (pro version came with Fox shock and better brakes).....the shock aint great but happy with it till it dies.

As standard they were £1,300........in total, probably looking at about £2,100 ish as it is now. Lot of money.......but its exactly as I want it......if I bought a 2k bike I would probably still have spent buckets getting it to how I wanted.

Edit - and yes, before anyone says it......I know you can buy a motorbike for that kind of money.....but this keeps me fit and doesnt cost fuel! Lol ;-)

[Paul the 6th]

Yeah well...... I've got a 2009 spesh hardrock sport..

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5260/5514525537_f01dd4e802.jpg

Cable discs, pretty sure it's only got actual suspension components in one of the fork legs... And it's got lights:razz: not even remotely jealous of yours. Bastid

[Drew Carey]

Yeah well...... I've got a 2009 spesh hardrock sport..

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5260/5514525537_f01dd4e802.jpg

Cable discs, pretty sure it's only got actual suspension components in one of the fork legs... And it's got lights:razz: not even remotely jealous of yours. Bastid

Good start bike that is.....always come quite high in reviews.

[Venom]

Yeah well...... I've got a 2009 spesh hardrock sport..

They're quite nice bikes, I used to have one. Capable of a lot of abuse, there's nothing I wouldn't tackle on one that I'd point my current full suss 'Trigger's Broom' at.

[Venom]

Yo guys, just wondering:

What's everyone's take on riding 'wild' trails on your own? By wild I mean 'not a conventional trail centre' but more paths up in the Yorkshire dales? Is it generally advised against? Or do you lot disappear for a few hours at a time without a second thought?

Obviously I'm not Aaron ralston, and the dales isn't the darkest depths of the Nevada dessert, but I've heard off road (motorised I.e. Ktm & tenere stylee) riders talk about how you should never really go exploring on your own in case of an off/getting stuck etc. does the same apply to MTB? Or am I being a big nancy?

It's fine, generally I MTB alone for an escape. Just take a fully charged mobile, first aid kit, repair kit, optional space blanket, drink, food, tell someone your route and expected return. Use common sense and don't push yourself into a situation.

[Luckypants]

It's fine, generally I MTB alone for an escape. Just take a fully charged mobile, first aid kit, repair kit, optional space blanket, drink, food, tell someone your route and expected return. Use common sense and don't push yourself into a situation.

This is what I would say, but add to the list suitable extra layers / waterproofs. Even in the height of summer a rain jacket can work as a wind stopper to keep you from getting cold.

[Paul the 6th]

cool cheers guys, some good common sense tips there. I'll make sure I leave a route map with the missus.. Better not ride after an argument..

Anyone been up towards Kilnsey Moors in the Dales at all? This is basically the route I found in my old MBR mag.. http://www.mtbdales.com/dales_route_guides.php?catid=7

[yorkie_chris]

Yo guys, just wondering:

What's everyone's take on riding 'wild' trails on your own? By wild I mean 'not a conventional trail centre' but more paths up in the Yorkshire dales? Is it generally advised against? Or do you lot disappear for a few hours at a time without a second thought?

Obviously I'm not Aaron ralston, and the dales isn't the darkest depths of the Nevada dessert, but I've heard off road (motorised I.e. Ktm & tenere stylee) riders talk about how you should never really go exploring on your own in case of an off/getting stuck etc. does the same apply to MTB? Or am I being a big nancy?

Take a jacket.

Big risk is breaking your leg or something as obviously this would never occur anywhere with mobile coverage...

[Paul the 6th]

I'd just walk it off if I broke my leg.

I'll probably be fine :thumbsup: just wish there were some half decent trails a bit nearer than Dalby or Dales - its like an hour no matter which way I go.

[G]

I never do anything to silly when I'm on my own. I won't start dropping of huge rocks, attempting to jump or generally doing anything where the chances falling off badly is increased.

A nice ride out is fine though.

I've been riding at a trail centre in the evening and stupidly twisted my ankle and it was a long walk out where I saw no one. So you could end up in a situation quite easily... reality is someone will miss you and alert the police. As long as you don;t smash your head open or rip a hole in yourself you will be found.

You need a luminous yellow bike too... just so the SAR Helicopter can see you.

[1210tech]

quality little film with Guy Martin at Orange Bikes factory, fast forward to 10 mins in for the funniest bit, well imo anyway, made me laugh outloud ;)

mlIYEdRFQu4

[G]

I love the videos OrangeBikes keep banging out. Most of their staff have worked there for 10 years+ too

Yorkshire built bikes... The expensive ones the make anyway lol

[Drew Carey]

Hi All,

As Lily had a blast at the weekend I am building her a MTB. Here is where I am currently;

Giant XTC 1 Frame, brand new with headset, seatpost, front SLX mech and BB included - pickiing up for £150 notes.

Bits I currently have are;

Bar, Stem, Pedals, Skewers, Chainstay Protector, Cranks (Deore set), Casette, wheels.....

Bits I have written down as needing.....

Grips, Saddle, Headset Spacers, Crud Catcher, Neoguard, Rear SLX Mech, SRAM Chain, Goodridge gear cable set, Shimano Deore Shifters.

I am then looking at getting some Recon Silver forks as On-One have these on offer at £109.99 at the moment!! Brakes I am scouring Bikeradar etc for and rotors I will just get from Superstar.......is there anything that anyone can think of that I am missing??????

In total including frame am looking at £505 based on current prices for bits. To me that seems good value considering the Recon / SLX etc spec.....thoughts please on a postcard?

[EssexDave]

Recommend me:

A cheap mountain bike to have some fun with.

Ideally Sub £200. Nothing fancy just has to work and not break.

I don't know whether I want (need) suspension or not.

[maviczap]

Recommend me:

A cheap mountain bike to have some fun with.

Ideally Sub £200. Nothing fancy just has to work and not break.

I don't know whether I want (need) suspension or not.

Pretty difficult to recommend anything at this budget

During our Welsh MTB weekend we met someone who'd bought a cheapo Argos bike which had been trashed on one ride.

Even on my £500 Voodoo it wasn't as good as the full sus bikes on some of the sections

You know what a nice road bike is like, its the same for MTB's and they need to be built well to cope with what's thrown at them.

Maybe you could pick up something 2nd hand or an older model for your budget

[stewie]

Shame you're not a bit closer mate, ive an old GT Timberline you could have for next to nothing, reasonable nick, shimano gears etc, two water bottle holders and a crud catcher, what more could you possibly want ? :)

[maviczap]

I may be up your way Stewie, certainly in May, so I could relay it back down to mine for Dave to collect.

Might be before May, but nothing's been arranged.

Pity Dave hadn't asked before this weekend, as I wasn't that far away in North Wales

[andyb]

Hi guys,

I don't come on here much anymore but regularly browse. I'm going to be going from Manchester to Hemel Hempstead for a couple of days the week after next, would happily transport a bike if needed?

Best PM me if I can help.

Andy

[AndyBrad]

hi folks, im wondering if you can help me. just flogged my hybrid to somone at work (shame lovely bike) and looking for something to go off road with (like dalby) if found the follwing on ebay could i get some feedback please on what i need to be looking at?

this looks cool
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Felt-Q720-2011-Mountain-Bike-/150766526891?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item231a62a1ab

this looks cheap
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Trek-4500-2011-Disc-/320857954122?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item4ab49fd74a

this looks expensive
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Specialized-Stumpjumper-FSR-Elite-2010-model-/320854152782?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item4ab465d64e

these look about the same
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TREK-4300-MOUNTAIN-BIKE-MENS-2010-MODEL-/160747420759?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item256d4afc57

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Specialized-Rockhopper-SL-2011-Mountain-Bike-/110833520050?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item19ce314db2

any thoughts or ideas please?

[Drew Carey]

With out a doubt in my view the Specialized at the end.......although it has Suntour forks, that is the model that has the upgraded Spesh OEM Spike Valve which on a fork at that budget is good.

Secondly they have updated the brakes etc too.

Hoooowever - the full sus on there at £500 notes is not a bad shout at all. I don't know much about the Fox RL forks etc......but the components on it are good. Providing it has been well looked after etc could be a good deal.

EDIT - Just realised that £500 is the opening bid......expect that to go for a LOT more than what it is at now.

[AndyBrad]

oh bugger, not spending that kinda brass

[G]

Anybody lookin to upgrade their forks?

I have some 2012 140mm Fox Float 32 FIT RLC fork with Kashima Coating that I'm looking to sell. They are only 4 months old and in immaculate condition.

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/423865_10150618630419837_502519836_8765475_1384319 648_n.jpg

RRP is £750+

I'm looking for £450

[pookie]

note those are tapered forks

[G]

note those are tapered forks

and 15QR... steerer is 21.5cm in length.

[AndyBrad]

what about this one?

http://www.thebikelist.co.uk/boardman/mtb-ht-sport-2010

for 270 quid?

[speedplay]

The boardman stuff is usually pretty good for the money.
Not a bad frame and not bad components either.

[AndyBrad]

yea just dont know if its worth it. the reviews say the forks crap but having never had suspension will i really know?

[Drew Carey]

The forks on it are the rockshox dart and TBH they arent great.......however, they are better IMO than the Suntours. For this price......you wont get much better.

It would give you a cracking base to upgrade in the future, as would the spesh you put earlier.

[maviczap]

yea just dont know if its worth it. the reviews say the forks crap but having never had suspension will i really know?

No you won't. But as I found out on Saturday, even my Suntour forks are better than rigid forks :p

I can't justify having a superdooper MTB, but the Boardman is a good base to start.

As I always say to anyone buying a road bike, get a good frame & build around or upgrade the components

[Paul the 6th]

Tbh the sun tours are like stock sv suspension. We all managed on it for a little while before getting the urge to upgrade as our skill improved. You'll manage fine with the sr suntour or rockshox - just don't have a go on any £2.2k downhill bikes lol