Cyclocross - Cross bike under $1000???

So I'm after a super versatile bike that can do centuries, trails, singletrack, roads, whatever I put in front of it, and do it all with some degree agility and poise. This probably won't be a daily commuter, I have my fixed gears for that.

Should I just get a Cross Check? I can get a Cross Check complete, brand new for a little over $700.

Other than that, what should I look at? Used Tricross? I was thinking about a Soma Double Cross because I like my Rush so well, but I don't think that build would stay under a grand.

So take it away guys. Is the Cross Check really as versatile and awesome as everyone says, or is there a better choice?

other than something used, my vote is for the crosscheck. you could build it up geared, or single speed, it fits huge tires, has fender and rack mounts, is steel, is inexpensive... what else do you need?

my wife and a friend of mine both have a double cross. i think it's a great frame as well, and a bit lighter than the crosscheck. you can get them super cheap from here: www.bikemania.biz perhaps set it up with barcons to keep the price down.

Better ?. I can't say. In addition to; check out the Jamis Nova and the Aurora (called a tourer by some) ALSO, I'd look at Bianchi, Volpe is in their site under cross. Many models are costly in Bianchi, the Volpe isn't. That and the Jamis are popular. A big factor is availabily in any case. I've ridden and like the two that I've mentioned.

I can get either a Volpe or a Nova in PGH, so that's no big issue. I'll test ride tomorrow before work. Hooray!

Should I just get a Cross Check? I can get a Cross Check complete, brand new for a little over $700.

Where can you get a Cross Check for $700?

Tim

If I may semi-hijack this thread: I'm also ready to buy an entry-level cross bike (my first). I haven't seen Cross Check at any local stores, but here in Canada, Norco makes two bikes I can get, the CCX1 and CCX2 at $1,500 and $1,000 Cdn$ - a bit lower in US$. I think these are distributed in the States as well.

Anyone have one of these?

Where can you get a Cross Check for $700?

Tim

LBS who doesn't deal in new bikes, but orders from the main distribution catalogs as needed. I think it's kind of a thing he only does for regulars.

EDIT: $715 or so includes shipping, as well.

Kona Jake. under $1000. sweet ride. or splurge for a Jake the Snake.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_cross_preorder100.htm

If I may semi-hijack this thread: I'm also ready to buy an entry-level cross bike (my first). I haven't seen Cross Check at any local stores, but here in Canada, Norco makes two bikes I can get, the CCX1 and CCX2 at $1,500 and $1,000 Cdn$ - a bit lower in US$. I think these are distributed in the States as well.

Anyone have one of these?

dunno about the norco, but any bike shop who can order out of the quality bicycle products (qbp) catalog can order a surly crosscheck.

Motobecane Fantom Cross, got mine new $850 TTL at a local bike shop, it's cheaper online at bikesdirect.com do all the above you listed and more with it.

For the money, the motobecan is the jam.

Where do yall find all these random bikes direct links? I click to that site and don't see half the **** I see linked to on the forums

Where do yall find all these random bikes direct links? I click to that site and don't see half the **** I see linked to on the forums

I am sorry you are having trouble finding our links

in my opinion the Fantom Cross Pro is clearly the best CycloCross bike under $1000
it is selling like crazy

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_cross_pro.htm

I am sorry you are having trouble finding our links

in my opinion the Fantom Cross Pro is clearly the best CycloCross bike under $1000
it is selling like crazy

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_cross_pro.htm


That's a stupid good deal. The parts alone would cost you that ammount. Just swap frames (if you don't like Motobecan) and you would have an awesome race bike.

I also am in the same boat as veggie, I am looking for a cross for under 1000. I found a good deal on a 2006 Jake, but I wonder about the Sora shifters. I know the Bianchi has the tiagra shifters but is more money, I could also upgrade the Jake right from the start and get a credit for the Sora shifters and put the bike right in the same price range as the Bianchi.

I am injured right now and I can't test ride but I want to try out the Sora when I can, and I know I like the Tiagra because they are on my friends Trek 1500 that I have ridden a few times. I am crazy to worry so much about the shifters? For someone who will be commuting, riding for transport and riding for health benefits, but not racing, will splurging a bit and getting better shifters/componets now make me happier down the road or do most people long for an upgrade later?

Thanks.

I've got a 2006 Jake. LOVE IT! I've never had a problem with the Sora shifters or tiagra rd. However, I have found if I'm changing gears alot the little thumb shifter will give me a blister. Other than that they're good shifters. If you think you'll eventually want to go to 105 or higher you can get about $70 for the Sora shifters on ebay and pickup some tiagra or 105's for $90-120. Just remember upgrading shifters will likely mean going from 8 to 9 speed (although not necessarily), which means new cassette and new chain.
Picks of my 2006 jake and new shifters/rd
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i188/changedlatitude/Jake2.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i188/changedlatitude/Jake1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i188/changedlatitude/105.jpg

That is a good point, marginal steps are not worth it and I guess I can just wait for the Sora to wear out and then jump to something much better.

Nice bike as well.

Would this bike be able to take on my weight without upgrades? Motobecane Fantom Cross
I'm 6'4" 265lbs. TIA