Cyclocross - New Crosscheck or Used Las Cruces / Poprad

So weighing my options for the ~$1000 I want to spend on a cross bike. It seems the components on a stock Las Cruces or Poprad outweigh the Crosscheck enough that maybe waiting for a used LC/Poprad is worth it.

I was also a little concerned about the weight of the Crosscheck. I saw a weight somewhere of 23.3 lbs complete for a 42cm. I have a touring bike that weighs 23, and it's a 56 and I think I even weighed it with a bottle of water on board.

Being in Los Angeles the majority of my riding is on the street, and the cross country typically consists of abandoned streets running through Griffith Park or Elysian Park. So I really need something nimble on the street, as well as solid in the urban backcountry.

Any thoughts, well appreciated.

Surly makes good bikes, but I don't think weight is their first or even second priority. My partner rides a Cross-Check that I built up for her and it's a great bike ... possibly you could upgrade a C-C with a carbon fork to take a pound or two off the overall weight ...

... That being said, if it's an OX Platinum (or 853) Poprad I'd be all over that in a second. Much nicer steel and you'll see a significant weight savings. If you're considering the Salsa, take a close look for any frame damage. Aluminum can't take the hits that steel can and keep going year after year.

</$0.02>

I'm torn on making my final decision on the Crosscheck also. To get the Crosscheck or to go with another choice.

I've got an 07 Poprad and love it. Highly recommend it.

I would go with the Poprad. My 54cm Cross Check weighed 28lbs or so with rack and fenders. It was a pig.

28lbs doesn't seem bad for a commuter. If you're not going to be racing Cross with it then whats the weight worry?

I just built up an 05 poprad frame and fork. I've put 5 or so miles on it but so far it rocks. I'll post some pics in the show and tell thread this weekend.

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I will keep my eyes out for a Poprad, if nothing shows up I'll try out the crosscheck.

I do have a question about the Poprad Disc for those who have one - are there braze-ons in the rear to add canti brakes if desired? Or are you stuck with disc forever?
Also I read some back posts that the 2006 had fork problems. Has anyone experienced any issues?

cheers.

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I will keep my eyes out for a Poprad, if nothing shows up I'll try out the crosscheck.

I do have a question about the Poprad Disc for those who have one - are there braze-ons in the rear to add canti brakes if desired? Or are you stuck with disc forever?
Also I read some back posts that the 2006 had fork problems. Has anyone experienced any issues?

cheers.

The current model model is disc-specific. Last year Lemond put out a canti version and a disc-specific version.