PDA

View Full Version : Is this a good deal?




bww
08-06-07, 11:28 AM
I am starting to search for my first bike in about 30 years. I am a fit 60 yr old and would like something to ride around town and maybe go up to 15 miles or so. I didn't want to spend a lot of money, but I want something that will last a while and be a good first bike.

SportsChalet has a special on the DiamondBack Maravista for $249.00
Would this be a good first bike for me?? The price seems very good for what I would be getting. They have a pretty good bike department (service, etc.). They don't offer test rides but said I could try it for a week and bring it back if I am unhappy.

I would appreciate any feedback, thanks

Here are the specs:
DiamondBack Maravista `06
Sizes SM (15"), M (17"), LG (19"), XL (21"), WS (15")
Colors Gloss Silver (M), Gloss Light Aqua (W)
Frame 6061-T6 Alloy Hybrid w/ internal Cable routing, replaceable derailleur Hanger, H2O Bottle Mounts
Fork Spinner Odessa ACS Comfort Suspension w/ adjuster
Headset 1 1/8" threaded
Crankset Shimano TX-71 48/38/28 w/ chainguard
Bottom Bracket Sealed Cartridge
F. Derailleur Shimano C202
R. Derailleur Shimano Alivio
Shift Lever Shimano EF-35 Rapid Fire 8spd
Cog Set SRAM PG-830 8spd (11-32t)
Chain KMC-Z82
Hubset (F) Alloy QR (R) Shimano RM30 Cassette
Spokes 14g Black Stainless
Rims Weinmann AC-19 Double Wall 32h
Tires Puncture-Resistant Kenda Cross w/ K-shield 700x40c
Brakes Tektro linear
Brake Levers Shimano Easy Fire EF-36
Pedals Avenir Comfort Plus
Handlebar Comfort Riser
Grips Avenir 3-D Comfort
Stem Alloy adjustable
Seatpost Avenir Silhouette Post 27.2mm
Saddle Avenir Deluxe Cross Comfort
Extras Clear coat, owner’s manual, H20 bottle mounts

Treker
08-07-07, 11:35 AM
Hybrids, like the bike you suggest, may be very suitable for you, but I'd recommend test-riding several bikes before diving in. Since you've been 'away' for a while, getting a comfortable fit is critical to a positive cycling experience. Good LBS do this and it should take more than 5 minutes...explore one or two other bike shops to get a feel of product and service breadth and pricing.

A few questions for you to consider: If your travelways are primarily asphalt or fine gravel, do you need shocks or would a suspension seat post suffice? IMO shocks add unnecessary weight for most applications. I fully understand your budget concerns but is $250 your max? I submit that your cycling experience might be substantially better on a bike in the $300-400 range, ie lighter, better components, feel etc.

Good luck and welcome back to cycling!

RonH
08-19-07, 08:07 AM
I am starting to search for my first bike in about 30 years. I am a fit 60 yr old and would like something to ride around town and maybe go up to 15 miles or so.
You're just a kid (I'm 62). Go to a bike shop and get a real bike and start training for your first century or metric century. :)

bww
08-21-07, 08:53 AM
You're just a kid (I'm 62). Go to a bike shop and get a real bike and start training for your first century or metric century. :)

I like your attitude. I passed on the SportChalet bike and will take your advice and go to a bike shop.

RonH
08-23-07, 01:40 PM
I like your attitude. I passed on the SportChalet bike and will take your advice and go to a bike shop.
Great! :beer: Be sure you let us know what bike you get.

BigSteve
09-06-07, 07:23 PM
bww,

Thanks for asking this question - I am looking at the exact same bicycle at Sports Chalet in Phoenix, AZ. I am 6' 2" & 270 lb (ok, working out and have dropped 3 lbs in the last 2 weeks - hence the name "Big Steve").

If I get the 21 inch size would that suffice? I am short on cash, but I do try to support my local businesses, including my bicycle shops. Any suggestions would be welcome.

I plan on riding to work about 10 miles each way. Mostly pavement, but some gravel (got too many flat tires on my road bicycle... narrow tires I suppose)

Thanks for any input!