Mountain Biking - Novara mtb?

What do people generally think about REI's Novara brand for mountain bikes? Specifically, i'm looking at a Ponderosa SL (with disk brakes) for $999. It looks to me like a good deal.

Thanks,
Mike

I think the name is funny for a bike.......ponderosa sl:D

Good bike for the price, full XT, manitou black fork, quite a few ritchy components, and a nice wheelset.

I have no idea about the frames. A cheap frame on a $100 bike will ride just as bad as a cheap frame on a $1000 bike. I also have no idea what disc brakes come with the bike, not all are worth there money.

Have you looked at bikes at your LBS? I know my LBS is now discounting all the 2002 bikes. You should beable to find something at the same level as the Ponderosa SL at the same price point at a bike shop. I would rather support a LBS then REI anyday.

Originally posted by mjrohnso
What do people generally think about REI's Novara brand for mountain bikes? Specifically, i'm looking at a Ponderosa SL (with disk brakes) for $999. It looks to me like a good deal.

Thanks,
Mike


Ponderosa SL? Give me a link........I cant find that exact model. THANKS

I did some looking too, and never found it on the web. I found the bike in the store. I think it was also in their brochure (paper, not online).

Also, the disk brakes are Avid mechanicals.

Okay, I did find something: http://www.rei.com/rei/novara/novara02.pdf

This lists the specs for the different versions.

For some reason I thought it was full suspension, I guess its not. Seems like a good buy with the components it comes with.