The MTB thread

[JamesMio]

@Andy - went for the Nerve XC, it's almost all trail centre still I'm riding, and that bike seems to either win or runner up on all the 'Trail bike of the year' awards in all the magazines.

Arrived today, bolted all the bits together and gave it a quick whirl round the block. Must say, well impressed with it so far. Light as a feather, even for a full suss, and defo lighter than my hard tail.

Seems really well put together too, and the price was unbeatable compared to pretty much anything else out there.

Re the KTM's, we hired a few different bikes when on holiday in Tignes this summer. By far the best was a Scott, and the worst, by far and agreed by all, we're the KTM's. They look great, but the ride was absolutely dreadful.

[maviczap]

They should probably stick to doing what they know best.

Likewise there were some bicycles on the Ducati stand at the last NEC show I went to. For a country that makes some of the most beautiful bicycles in the world, I don't know what Ducati were thinking, because these bikes were hideous and for a company that make some of the most iconic & beautiful motorcycles they should also stick to the day job

[AndyBrad]

Cheers folks. Yea not sure on the 29.er it limits choice that's for sure but it does seem like the future?

Glad you like it. James. I can't decide between the xc or am you see ;-) am looks like the better bet round here as I'll be worried about breaking the xc

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[JamesMio]

Glad you like it. James. I can't decide between the xc or am you see ;-) am looks like the better bet round here as I'll be worried about breaking the xc


It certainly seems pretty sturdy and substantial - time will tell I guess, but I'm certainly of a chunkier construction than you, so if it takes a combo of my gutload & trail centre Red routes, I'm sure it'll be Ok for you!

[Drew Carey]

If you are doing mainly trail centres etc and like to test yourself on the jumps and obstacles more - then I would suggest the AM.

If however you are not fussed on doing the jumps etc and will always take the chicken runs to take the fastest line - then I would suggest the XC.

Given that the weight diff is not massive between the two I would say AM......as more versatile. Plus, if you do mess up a drop off etc and don't land it well etc - AM is more likely to take it better. (Well it certainly would for fatties like me!)

[JamesMio]

So, took the Canyon out for it's first proper ride yesterday, round the red route at Mabie. IT coped fine, but it's going to take me a bit of getting used to riding it I think - I feel like I'm right over the front wheel when I'm up out of the seat.

Also, I'll need to do some proper reading up on how to set the suspension up, as I had the front way, way too soft - was bottoming out all over the shop.

That aside, first impressions are pretty good

[barwel1992]

any one want a xt shadow rear mech (9spd) in long cage only used a few times but had it for about 2 years I'm after about £35 or £38 delivered these are £56 on chain reaction and £68 on leisure lakes

PM me if intreated

http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/barwell1992/P1010510.jpg

[barwel1992]

just started to update my bike and get it back in to some sort of working form, new deep set BB to cope with the chain device as its non ISAS (or what ever) mount as the old BB cup creaked a lot, just service my forks at work as well, new headset getting pressed in (FSA orbit MX) on monday

http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/barwell1992/IMAG0915_zps6411aec2.jpg
http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/barwell1992/IMAG0914_zps36d5575c.jpg

just about the start bleeding the brakes and generally giving them a good clean just like the rest of the bike
http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/barwell1992/P1010508.jpg
http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/barwell1992/P1010505.jpg

[dkid]

Hi guys. Thought I'd link to my MTB for sale in IB if that's ok? Seems this may be a good place to get it spotted.

http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=186273

Mods, If this is not deemed appropriate pleae feel free to move/delete. Thanks.

[JamesMio]

Heads up for anyone looking for lights for a spot of night trail riding. eBuyer are selling MagicShines for about £40-50 less than RRP (which in itself is a lot cheaper than most of the lights I've seen)

[big jc]

I'm sorry to say, I'm selling up due to work commitments I don't have the time to ride and so cannot justify keeping my bike.

So here go's!
It's a 2012 orange five special edition black gold with rock shox reverb seat post. it's been out once since feb last year, it has dmr pedals and is fitted with heli tape on tubes and forks.
It cost just shy of 3k new and is in excellent condition. im after £2300 but I'm open to sensible offers.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Orange-five-5-black-gold-limited-edition-2012-Mountain-Bike-MTB-/321061519163?_trksid=p2045573.m2042&_trkparms=aid%3D111000%26algo%3DREC.CURRENT%26ao%3 D1%26asc%3D27%26meid%3D5108660686398544534%26pid%3 D100033%26prg%3D1011%26rk%3D2%26sd%3D320993841170% 26

http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk45/canning985/MTB/81f2a4bb.jpg

[Luckypants]

Hmmm I came in here to get some advice on selling my MTB and see the last post is an unanswered for sale post.

Can anyone comment on the value of second hand bikes? Excellent condition hardly used yadda yadda Trek Top Fuel 8 suspension XC bike like the one below

http://www.evanscycles.com/product_image/image/e44/5c3/522/42904/large/trek-top-fuel-8-2010-mountain-bike.jpg

These were £2200 new and as this is hardly used I'd like to get a good price. Would I be over ambitious looking for £1400?

[northwind]

Well THAT didn't last long :D

I'd get it on Bikeradar and Singletrackworld, with really good pics- Bikeradar has (or is about to have) a minimum number of posts before you can post in the classifieds but the way round that is pretty obvious... Singletrackworld has a bit of a more middle-aged readership with a bit more money ;)

I couldn't hazard a guess on price though. 2/3ds of the new value is generally a good guideline for a fairly new bike. I tend to part mine out but that doesn't seem like a good approach for a bike like this (mine are all cobbled together!)

[Drew Carey]

How come you are selling up Mike? :-(

[Luckypants]

I'm just not using it Drew, taken to road biking in a big way and it is just sitting in the garage doing nowt and taking up space. As we hope to move this year, it is clutter to be got rid of!

[AndyBrad]

Whats the frame size?

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[Luckypants]

I think it's 18" Andy. Would suit 30-34 inside leg I think. I am a 32" inside leg and the seat post is set quite high quite high. Here is a picture of the actual bike on the maiden ride

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/69322_451763678213_254250_n.jpg

[AndyBrad]

Cheers. Bit big for me unfortunately.



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[maviczap]

I think I need a new mech & hanger.

An already bent mech must have got bashed in the shed, as an unfortunate up change resulted in a rear mech - rear wheel interface, with the hanger losing out

Whoops :roll:

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Nb0AL48yiAw/UXBFJoBSn-I/AAAAAAAABmI/4PcjH0KAN-o/s640/DSCF3696.JPG

[northwind]

Well ruined sir! At least you didn't get the wheel to complete the set like I did :rolleyes: At least the hangers are cheap, £7 or £8 from Halfords. It's about £25 for one for my Orange!

[maviczap]

Pretty good for only 2 rides on my new steed. :p :p

I had straightend the mech but it wasn't perfect.

like your say the hanger is only £8 and the mech is only £24

[Owenski]

Well good work pal!

Mike did you sell the Trek?
£1400 is about £1000 over my current budget but nice all the same.

[northwind]

Pretty good for only 2 rides on my new steed. :p :p

If it's any consolation- something expensive missing in this pic!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8662777927_1d93290576_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8662777927/)
IMAG0203 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8662777927/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

Lost mech hanger, mech, chain and 6 spokes. Might not have been quite so bad if I'd stopped instead of finishing the race mind (in about 299th place out of 300 :mrgreen: )

[northwind]

OK so anyway, about every 3 months I turn this thread into a personal blog, so why not... Since last time I've sold a couple of bikes, and built this:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8601011846_5ccece14ff_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8601011846/)
IMG_1732 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8601011846/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

Weighs just under 20lbs, goes up hills like a missile, and down hills like a ****ed spacehopper thrown down a mineshaft. It's an older Cotic Soda, could only afford it as some considerate previous owner had cracked it- got it welded back together and away we go. In some ways it's kind of awful, but brilliantly awful!

Meanwhile, couldn't be more different- this is coming together nicely but still getting some work on the forks... Should be ready in time for the lifts to open at fort william in May.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8645935531_5c73dbe915_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8645935531/)
IMG_1769 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8645935531/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

Because you've got to have something to do when the weather's so good- wasn't much riding available over the last couple of months, here's Glentress under snowdrifts as tall as I am. Even ice spike tyres only go so far...

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8587571510_c06cc5f2c9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8587571510/)
IMAG0289 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8587571510/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

But til the Blue Orange is finished, I guess the Hemlock will just have to be my uplift bike... Wee trip to Antur Stiniog...

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8653584100_6e37708813_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8653584100/)
IMG_0100 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8653584100/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

...and my race bike. Night enduro racing? Why not

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8249/8528135614_bcefe03053_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8528135614/)
Braaaaaapppp (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53860438@N06/8528135614/) by Northwindlowlander (http://www.flickr.com/people/53860438@N06/), on Flickr

(ridiculously flattering photos, I wasn't going that fast in either but the camera never lies aye?)

[Owenski]

Riiiiiite firmly getting back in the saddle and having sold/selling some SV's I've got a tiny bit of money to burn/spend wisely and Im thinking its about time my garage had an XC bike back in it. Ideally a FS but its not fussed about travel, I do like my jumps/drops though so something to save tired knees would be nice.

I've never been very good at buying budget/second hand. I either buy a bike for my budget.. which then needs work. Or I buy under budget anticipating required work, only to find you cant polish a turd.

SO!
Budget around £500 - suggestions please!

Known contenders:
Spec FSR enduro 2006ish model. Its not unheard of to pick up a for within budget (eh tom?) and I wouldn't mind one of those. but the spec varies bike to bike so you've got to be a bit savvy with what you get as one FSR wont be the same as another.

Anything by Orange is super ok (YORKSHIRE, YORKSHIRE, YORKSHIRE!!!) not that I'm bias and not that it matters as little of the orange range fit into my budget.

Thats where I'm sort of stumped... dearest Org, shed some light on it for me.

[Drew Carey]

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=40089&t=12917623

[AndyBrad]

Matt I got a boardman fs pro for 560 quid. Its bloody fantastic mate. Guy on Facebook is selling a team for 500 but you might be able to knock him down.

Better than the older specialized imo

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

[northwind]

Definitely full suss? £500 gets a lot more hardtail than full suss...

[Owenski]

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=40089&t=12917623
I'm 5'7 so a large frame is going to be a little too much for me.
Shame though, that bike looks stunning!

Matt I got a boardman fs pro for 560 quid. Its bloody fantastic mate. Guy on Facebook is selling a team for 500 but you might be able to knock him down.

Better than the older specialized imo

If you know the lad on your facebook Andy;
Is he local?
Can he get me the spec of the bike please, if its stock then what year. In fact I'd like to know what year anyway.


Definitely full suss? £500 gets a lot more hardtail than full suss...
It does and I admit that if I bought HT I'd get more spec for my cash but as I said the FS is better suited to my style of riding.

[AndyBrad]

Don't really know him tbh. But its bang on price.

Tbh a decent ht will cost the same. Around here all you need is a ht but the way things seem to be a small extra outlay gets a lot more bike. Those voodoo bikes and the vitus ones also seem good for the price.

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[Luckypants]

Mike did you sell the Trek?

No, kinda forgot about it - which is the reason I should sell it! :rolleyes:

[Owenski]

Got one!
http://forums.sv650.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=12629&stc=1&d=1368776081

The same bloke who was selling the Orange had this one about to come up for sale, I saw the spec and saw the frame (knowing the SC cham' is super light) I just couldn't resist. Damn near bit his hand off at the price he wanted.

Basic Spec:
Santa Cruz Chameleon (2006-2008)
Mavic 717 rims on hope hubs
Hope Mono brakes front and rear
Rock shox Revelation 150 forks

Its been set up as a fixed ring commuter atm but it will certainly be getting a groupset before hitting the trails.
I'm made up with it especially as the brakes and forks would sell for more than I bought the whole thing for.

[AndyBrad]

Nice.

When are we going for a ride then :-)

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[Drew Carey]

Don't bother getting a groupset......feel the burn and single speed it!!! :D

Kidding....nice bike though.

[Steve_God]

When are we going for a ride then :-)

http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=198548

[Owenski]

Nice.

When are we going for a ride then :-)



http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=198548

Precisely!

Looking at prices of buying the parts up and ouch... might have to aim a little lower than I'd hoped otherwise I'll be spending more on the group than on the bike!

[pug_leg]

Got a vague planning of heading to the Chilterns (nr Watlington) tomorrow for some biking... Bit of a long shot but has anyone been there recently? How muddy is it after the recent heavy rain?

Ta!

[Owenski]

Done!
A few quid more than I wanted to spend but I've got the tools included in that too so its not all bad.

The last few bits have just been ordered from Wiggle so as soon as they arrive I can begin putting it all together. Its currently in a few bits in the clamp stand while I take it apart and inspect a few bits to be sure I'm happy.

[ClunkintheUK]

Looks a tidy piece of kit that Owenski, nice grab.

[Scoobs]

I have one of these for sale if anyone is interested. £10 all in. Size: 34.9, red, very good condition. Drop me a PM if interested.

Thanks.

http://www.flatoutcycles.co.uk/ekmps/shops/flatoutcycles/images/hope-seat-clamp-qr-34.9mm-red-22548--1190-p.jpg

[Steve_God]

If any of you are on O2, take a look at their 'O2 Priority' app:
So far over the last 3 weeks I've got a free can of GT85, a basic bike lock, and also a puncture repair kit.

Plus, at the moment they're offering free services too! :)

[smudga]

me to ;-)
there also doing a free service as well if you pre book the service

[Griff-SV]

Got one!
http://forums.sv650.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=12629&stc=1&d=1368776081

The same bloke who was selling the Orange had this one about to come up for sale, I saw the spec and saw the frame (knowing the SC cham' is super light) I just couldn't resist. Damn near bit his hand off at the price he wanted.

Basic Spec:
Santa Cruz Chameleon (2006-2008)
Mavic 717 rims on hope hubs
Hope Mono brakes front and rear
Rock shox Revelation 150 forks

Its been set up as a fixed ring commuter atm but it will certainly be getting a groupset before hitting the trails.
I'm made up with it especially as the brakes and forks would sell for more than I bought the whole thing for.


Nice :) Enjoy!

[Griff-SV]

If any of you are on O2, take a look at their 'O2 Priority' app:
So far over the last 3 weeks I've got a free can of GT85, a basic bike lock, and also a puncture repair kit.

Plus, at the moment they're offering free services too! :)


Thanks to the mrs being on 02 I got the GT85 the other day :) Better than paying £5!

[Bibio]

thought i would pop in here to give a heads up that the mate across the road is selling his Merlin Mal1 with loads of fancy bits. anyone interested? think he wants something silly for it as he just wants a new bike.

[Paul the 6th]

yo dudes, my chain is ready for replacing, was showing .75% wear before dalby forest last weekend, but during the ride I had a pedal strike against a rock which snapped the chain. Used a power link to get me round the rest of the way..

I've read that chains need replacing at 1% wear (which mine is probably just about at by now) otherwise using a chain worn beyond this point can put pressure on the teeth of the cassette and chain rings....... but then now I've just read the cassette should be replaced anyway as good practice and because the chain might not mesh properly.

Conflicting info. What would you seasoned MTB'ers recommend?

[G]

Whenever I have not replaced the cassette and chain rings at the same time as the chain, the chain has skipped.

Friends have had the same problem.

Replace all.

[JamesMio]

+1 to G's comment - I've always replaced the chain, cassette and middle chain ring at the same time.

Tried scrimping on 1/2 bits in the past and it never pays off - you either end up with the remaining bits ripping the new one to bits and/or the chain slipping and jumping around like a b*stard.

Used to work in a bike shop back in't day when I were a lad, and got taught that very early one.

[Paul the 6th]

No problemo cheers guys, will do middle chain ring as well as the cassette then :)

[Owenski]

What speed rear you got paul?

[Paul the 6th]

Shimano 9 speed

[Owenski]

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/sram-pg950-9-speed-cassette/

bottom of the page has the chain and tool if you don't already have one.
Order from wiggle and it'll be here in a day or 2 provided its in stock currently.
I've got the tool though it you wanna save buying one, you could come round at the weekend for it fitting.
Need to plan it in though cos the little man dictates my movements this weekend, wifes off holiday shopping.

[Paul the 6th]

yoo dude, doing cannock on sunday so just invested in new chain, cassette, middle ring, chain whip, chain removal tool and chain ring bolts... all from chain reaction for £90, which worked out about £30 cheaper than Evans, but thanks for the offer dude :) won't be able to make dalby when you lads go, I'll be in exeter. Will be doing other rides though so fear not :)

[Owenski]

Places other than Dalby are decent rides around here? Dont want it to be any shorter than Dalby either so looking/aiming around 30milers.

[AndyBrad]

Matt

Don't know if you could get to the watermill at salterhebble for 7pm tomorrow? We get out every wed for 10-15 miles but itll give you a good insight into the area?

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

[Owenski]

Thanks for the invite pal and i d certainly take you up on it if it wasn't on a Wednesday. That's Abis night to go get fit so Ive got to stay in an keep an eye on Nate.

[Paul the 6th]

Am I missing something massively obvious guys?

After snapping my chain at dalby forest the other week I decided I'd treat my bike to a new chain/cassette/middle chainring. Ordered all the bits in, managed the cassette great, fitted new chain, however ordered the wrong crank puller (regular crank puller type ordered, where I needed the octolink/lsis type). Ordered correct tool, pulled crank off and removed chain rings..

I've followed the instructions to the letter, checked and re-checked, but there definitely isn't enough clearance between the smallest and middle chain chain ring for the chain to actually get on there. Pics below probably explain better:

Just to be absolutely certain, here's the instructions
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Jmexi4J_vkE/Ud3zluJQKsI/AAAAAAAAGZc/WuU4nNkRU4A/s900/photo%25201.JPG

chain drop prevention pin in line with crank arm
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--x1tCfmK0eE/Ud3zl1ImhfI/AAAAAAAAGZg/MTwCzac_ZRo/s700/photo%25202.JPG

The two salient points aligned with the crank arm (and in the next pic the markings facing away from the crank arm as per instructions)
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1EflLndZcoA/Ud3zmFscvTI/AAAAAAAAGZs/yC3sfyLgTu8/s700/photo%25203.JPG

markings facing away from crank arm
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YNMyUF5vz6Y/Ud3zm6RzLfI/AAAAAAAAGZ0/hZ4eQIXq_lo/s700/photo%25204.JPG

the lack of clearance which I'm referring to - I can't even get my fingernail in there..
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nJ_rF5e7iZw/Ud3znMDAyBI/AAAAAAAAGZ8/sfXQL9qI0a0/s700/photo%25205.JPG

Am I missing some spacers or something obvious? There were no spacers when the rings came off, I've followed the instructions, and also loosened and tightened each of the chainring bolts to rule out a case of unevenly torqued bolts twisting the rings from being 'flat' with one another..

Any help would be greatly appreciated.. Holowtech cranks, not sure what BB but it's whatever came with the bike - 2012 specialized camber fsr 29er..

Thanks in advance guys :(

[Paul the 6th]

p.s. also offered the original knackered middle ring up and the bevels/markings/salient all line up identically so it's not like I've got a slightly similar but incorrect item.

[JamesMio]

Hmmm - something doesn't look quite right there, I'm at work just now but I'll have a look at mine when I get home.

It'll very likely be one of the rings (middle or small) is on the wrong way round though

[Owenski]

did you buy the same ratio sprocket as the one you removed?

[Drew Carey]

I would suggest from that it is the wrong sprocket.

Have you got the old one to offer the new one up to thickness wise?

[maviczap]

Is the original chainring dished in someway?

The problem you've got is that the middle chainring has got the ramps which help on the upshift from the smallest chain ring.

If there weren't any spacers that fit in behind the smallest chainring, I'd say your new one is for old style square taper non hollowtech chainring.

I can't say that's right, but my old style chainrings are flat, like your new one & I've got an old style chainset

[Paul the 6th]

The original middle ring is identical in terms of part numbers, stamps, where the salient is, 32t shimano, the up shift ramps are identical, the little rivet style pubs which grab the chain on the up shift are also identical.

Will dismantle again & take photos for comparison. Might nip to lbs firing lunchbreak. Mav could be onto something as these square taper hollow tech vs. octolink hollow tech issues seem to be really common (like I had with buying the wrong crank puller)

[Paul the 6th]

Pins not pubs!

[Owenski]

Found your problem... you're ******ed from been down the pins all night ;)

[Paul the 6th]

aye it wouldn't be so bad if I was pizzed lolz.

A few guys on mbr are saying to switch the middle ring around so the shift ramps are on the other side "to stop the chain getting jammed between the middle ring and big ring" but this is the opposite of what the instructions say and I imagine the chain will struggle to mesh on changing up to the middle ring, if the shift ramps are on the other side

http://www.mbr.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?14590-Am-I-being-a-massive-moron-Replaced-middle-chainring-not-enough-clearance-for-chain&p=175734&posted=1#post175734

[ThEGr33k]

Well built a new DH bike up. Rides like a beauty, managed to **** up mind on first run out. Here is the bike and below that the video of me cocking up, then one of me not... Managed to twist my knee so off of MTB for a few weeks :'(

http://ep1.pinkbike.org/p5pb9880233/p5pb9880233.jpg

hl3_qwvfRmA

TY6-owkj5cI

[northwind]

BRRAAAAAAPPPPP. That is lovely. I particularily like the way you fell off on a really simple bit at Antur instead of a really deadly bit :)

[Paul the 6th]

just while no one is paying attention it turns out I was putting the big chain ring on the wrong side of the spider... Move on, nothing to see here..

Hope you're healing up ok Nick, atleast if you weren't expecting it you didn't tense up like you might on one of the nasty bits :)

[maviczap]

Ya great numpty!

[northwind]

Ohhhhh! Well in your defence nobody else figured it out either.

[ThEGr33k]

BRRAAAAAAPPPPP. That is lovely. I particularily like the way you fell off on a really simple bit at Antur instead of a really deadly bit :)

Yea, this is true. Thats what you get for going for it on a first day on a trail! Super foolish. Looked like a few others had had some issues with the marks on the corner, with it being so **** wet through that morning (arrived to thunder storm) it probably was a bit ****ty.

just while no one is paying attention it turns out I was putting the big chain ring on the wrong side of the spider... Move on, nothing to see here..

Hope you're healing up ok Nick, atleast if you weren't expecting it you didn't tense up like you might on one of the nasty bits :)

Glad you found it man, best way is to go single speed front tbh :p

I hope I will be back in the game soon man, really really loving the new build! The knee is certainly not great though :(

[Nobbylad]

I currently have a Carrera TDF road bike that I bought cheap from Halfords last year. I've not been out on it much due to 2 x knee operations and I'm in the frame of mind where I think a mountain bike might be a good option to get me back in the saddle on the basis that it will be easier to ride initially (I'm 2 weeks post op at the mo, so need something forgiving) especially with winter coming, but then I can use take off road as my physical condition improves. I'll still use the TDF for road riding mostly, but as I can take advantage of the cycle to work scheme if I order a voucher in the next 7 days, it's a good way to get a decent bike for a good price. We're supposed to source the bikes from Halfords (the TDF is £249 at the moment!), however I 'think' we can use alternative suppliers (Wiggle etc).

So - any pointers on a suitable MTB? Ta

EDIT: Budget is upto £1k, although ideally I'd like to pay around £5-600

[rp16v]

hey all new to the forum thought id highlight my intrest quite a heavy cyclist also work in the trade and mechanic for my local clubs
currentley riding
giant trance x full sus for wales trips
felt q920 full xc race spec weighing
spesh tricross for cross racing and road/triathlon dutys

bristol based so ashton court/leigh woods/50 acre are my stomping grounds
:cool:

[Owenski]

I currently have a Carrera TDF road bike that I bought cheap from Halfords last year. I've not been out on it much due to 2 x knee operations and I'm in the frame of mind where I think a mountain bike might be a good option to get me back in the saddle on the basis that it will be easier to ride initially (I'm 2 weeks post op at the mo, so need something forgiving) especially with winter coming, but then I can use take off road as my physical condition improves. I'll still use the TDF for road riding mostly, but as I can take advantage of the cycle to work scheme if I order a voucher in the next 7 days, it's a good way to get a decent bike for a good price. We're supposed to source the bikes from Halfords (the TDF is £249 at the moment!), however I 'think' we can use alternative suppliers (Wiggle etc).

So - any pointers on a suitable MTB? Ta

EDIT: Budget is upto £1k, although ideally I'd like to pay around £5-600


If its cycle2work as your only choice then this isnt any help but for what its worth I have the bike i built up this year. The spec (listed below) is absolutly top draw I've been contemplating listing it on ebay for £1k starting price and I'd let it go for £850 to an Organ.

Frame - Large Santa Cruz Chameleon (09 I believe)
Forks - Rock shocks revelation (serviced in summer)
Wheels - Hope disc hubs with mavic rims
Tyres - Mountain King 2.2
Brakes - Front and Rear Hope Tech 2 with new 210mm & 160mm discs
Front Mech - SRAM x9 (2speed)
Rear Mech - SRAM x9 (10speed)
Shifters - SRAM x9 (2x10)
Crankset - SRAM x9
Chain and Casette - SRAM 9 Series
Grips - Peaty Grips
Finishing Kit - Hope

I could itemize those items but basically I spent £400 on the bike, then around £1000 upgrading everything to the spec I wanted. Genuinely IMO you cannot get better brakes, and if you know your MTB you'll know SRAM x9 is more than enough even for most downhill bikes, only x0 beats it and thats completely unnecessary unless you're Danny Hart & Co.

My problem is that I blew everything on it and find myself now wanting a car... I'm not in a push to sell it as I know (and knew) when building it I would never get my money back, but sad fact is I just don't see when/how I'll get to use it and the cash would be more beneficial than the garage ornament atm.

[Owenski]

http://forums.sv650.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=12629&stc=1&d=1368776081

Thats the bike before I got the SRAM bits and the Hope Tech 2 Brakes fitted to it.

[JamesMio]

The Canyon stuff is stupidly good value for money - have a look at:

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3008 (£849)

or

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3002 (£679)

If you wanted to stretch that budget a little, check these out if/when they come back into stock - https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3025

[Dipper]

The Canyon stuff is stupidly good value for money - have a look at:

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3008 (£849)

or

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3002 (£679)

If you wanted to stretch that budget a little, check these out if/when they come back into stock - https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3025

Can't vouch for their MTB's but I just bought one of their road bikes, stonking bike for the money!

[Nobbylad]

The Canyon stuff is stupidly good value for money - have a look at:

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3008 (£849)

or

https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3002 (£679)

If you wanted to stretch that budget a little, check these out if/when they come back into stock - https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3025

Cheers fella - unfortunately, whilst Halfords can source a wide range of other brands, Canon is not one they do :(

I'd be over the moon if someone could give similar recommendations for any of the brands here => http://www.cycle2work.info/siteadvicecentrebrand#IBD

(I loved that Canon Nerve AL 6.0 too! https://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=3025)

[rp16v]

take a peek at the kenisis xc3 x9 build they have always built great frames altho boardman really are hard to beat in this price bracket i built one for mother running 1x9 on 115mm forks and it handles a dream, aparentley the full sus arnt a good as previose models

[JamesMio]

I had one of those Nerve's before the changed the name from XC to AM. Amazing value, superb spec but I just couldn't get on with the shape.

Great bike though, and I'd defo consider another in future.

[AndyBrad]

Ive got the boardman fspro. Its a great bike for the money.

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[Nobbylad]

Ive got the boardman fspro. Its a great bike for the money.

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This one?

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_77 7721_langId_-1_categoryId_165499#tab3

[northwind]

So - any pointers on a suitable MTB? Ta

EDIT: Budget is upto £1k, although ideally I'd like to pay around £5-600

TBH at that price, my first visit would be Halfords anyway, they've got some great options in that range- Carrera Fury memorably won a bike test in What Mountain Bike where it was up against a range of £800 bikes, frinstance, and the Boardman range is good. But the really good ones, the assorted higher end Voodoos, are all out of stock I think which is a bit of a bummer.

[Nobbylad]

Cheers pal - if you had any particular recommendations (even if they're out of stock at the mo), please let me know.

I know the guy who works at the local Halfords and they can sometimes get stuff, or at least give me the deal in the timeframe I have and then get the bike in - if you see what I mean?

[northwind]

If they can find you a Voodoo Bizango, it's an absolute belter, mate of mine has one and it's hard to credit it was only £600- brilliant.

[AndyBrad]

Nope they dont have the fs pro in stock any more. Thats the hardtail one.
The boardman hardtails are great but a little racy. The voodoo ones are nice. The fury is also good but I would spend my money on one of the others.

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[Nobbylad]

The Voodoo Hoodoo is the highest spec Voodoo Halfords do on their site.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_92 7853_langId_-1_categoryId_165499#tab1

[Nobbylad]

Right now, I think it's a straight fight between the Carrera Fury http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_81 0735_langId_-1_categoryId_165499

and the Voodoo Hoodoo

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_92 7853_langId_-1_categoryId_165499#tab1

[maviczap]

I've got a Hoodoo, its great for the price, but the Fury is blooming good too

[AndyBrad]

Both are good bikes but change the continental rubber on the fury. Its a rubbish compound and the same tyre but in propper rubber will transform the bike in the wet

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[Nobbylad]

Thanks guys, I'm leaning towards the Fury because it looks to have better equipment. Then again, the Voodoo is £150 cheaper!

[big jc]

Im sure i read somewhere that the Hoodoo is mbuk's best bike for under 600 quid

[Nobbylad]

Think I've pretty much decided on the Voodoo Hoodoo....now all I need to do is decide on size.

Probs go for 18" as I'm 5' 10"

[The Idle Biker]

Gents, hate to bring the high end talk back to cheap stuff but.....
I don't think I'll ever be a serious cyclist but I do want to get out a bit more this winter. Maybe 20 miles off road taking 1/2 day or so with the dogs n stuff like that, nothing too demanding, trails and woods but nothing extreme. I've been faffing around for ages and I may have even asked this before but..............what can you recommend for under £300 or does it all fall apart at that price?

Here's hoping?

[AndyBrad]

Btw the latest boardman bikes are due out in a month. Nows a good time to grab a bargin!

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[maviczap]

Gents, hate to bring the high end talk back to cheap stuff but.....
I don't think I'll ever be a serious cyclist but I do want to get out a bit more this winter. Maybe 20 miles off road taking 1/2 day or so with the dogs n stuff like that, nothing too demanding, trails and woods but nothing extreme. I've been faffing around for ages and I may have even asked this before but..............what can you recommend for under £300 or does it all fall apart at that price?

Here's hoping?

Btw the latest boardman bikes are due out in a month. Nows a good time to grab a bargin!

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+1

Have a look in Halfrauds, they sell off old models dirt cheap sometimes, you might not find much choice in sizes. Especially this time of year.

Plus other bike shop chains (see what I did there) will be getting rid of this years stock too. Have a look around

Otherwise EBAY or Bike Radar for bargains.

[The Idle Biker]

+1

Have a look in Halfrauds, they sell off old models dirt cheap sometimes, you might not find much choice in sizes. Especially this time of year.

Plus other bike shop chains (see what I did there) will be getting rid of this years stock too. Have a look around

Otherwise EBAY or Bike Radar for bargains.

Guys I'm The Idle Biker, I'm a lazy fook. Point me to links, tell me to buy it. I can't be doing with this look around stuff. I don't do research. I think I'd like one in Green though. :rolleyes:

[JamesMio]

Second hand is where I'd be looking dude, a good but used bike that's been looked after will always (always!!) be a better buy than one that was cheap in the beginning.

You could... (just thinking aloud here) look at something like a new On-One frame and forks then build the rest up via eBay bits and you'd end up with quite a steed I bet.

[Nobbylad]

Guys I'm The Idle Biker, I'm a lazy fook. Point me to links, tell me to buy it. I can't be doing with this look around stuff. I don't do research. I think I'd like one in Green though. :rolleyes:

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductMobileDisplay?catalogId=10151&storeId=10001&productId=927853&categoryId=165499&langId=-1