[Axher]

Hi, I'm new to cyclocross bike but i found that it's the bike i need. I usualy go on light trail and road but still want the speed on the road. Do too the restriction in dealers in my region I narowed the choise to a kona jake or a kona jake the snake. But I can't decided if the snake difference in the price is justified. Should I buy the snake or just the jake ? thanks

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[Axher]

I found that i can get the cannondale cyclocross too which one of those 3 would be the best too buy ? thanks

[MrEWorm]

Have you ridden them? Which one feels the best to you?

[Axher]

not yet because it's in another town but i will i just wanted to know first if the parts on the snake worth the extrat money ?

[rideintexas]

Go with the Jake, I just got one and love it. My friend has the Jake the Snake and the only difference is the 9 speed rear derailler on the Snake which can be easily and fairly cheaply upgraded. The frames and cockpit components are nearly identical. I do not think the price difference is worth it. Especially for your first cross bike.

[BlastRadius]

To upgrade from 8-speed Sora to 9-speed Tiagra, 105, Ultegra, or Dura-Ace, you'd need at the _very least_ a new cassette and new STI shifters.

The 105 group and other components are IMO worth $250 MSRP difference. But Sora may be more than enough for your needs.

[rideintexas]

BlastRadius is right. My earlier post was incorrect, the Jake Rear Derraileur is 9 speed and the shifters and cassette are 8. So you would need new shifters and a cassette. Sorry about that. This does not however change my opinion that you should get the Jake over the JTS.

[Urbanmonk]

I was in the same dilemna. Tried all 3 and went with the Cannondale Cyclocross. To me, it felt more nimble, responsive and lighter; however, I use it for road miles, and love the geo design--it just fit me better. I slapped on some Armadillo 28s and away I went. But you won't go wrong if you take the Jake or the Snake. Components on the Snake are higher end, and as Blast said, "worth the extra dough." You may find yourself upgrading later.

Cheers,

Urbanmonk