Mountain Biking - Need Advice - New Guy

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Need Advice - New Guy

heatsecr
06-06-04, 08:45 PM
Hi folks -

I have been out of the mtb scene for some time and I have been looking for a new ride and need some advice/direction. My last bike was a Schwinn (no laughing) and i sorta out grown it. Currently I'm 6'8 and close to 250 lbs. .... definitly clysesdale material! In my search I have sorta looked only at hardtails. My type of riding is mostly XC with some more aggressive trail/downhill. My local dealer gave me a list of bikes that would be a strong platform to start with before I start to modify and tweek. What do you guys think? Also I've heard Gary Fisher has some frames that can handle a big guy...any suggestions?

1.) Kona Hoss
2.) Jamis Komodo FX
3.) Santa Cruz Chameleon

Thanks Much - BRAD

a2psyklnut
06-06-04, 08:50 PM
The three listed are all great bikes. Of the three, I like Kona's approach and understanding that a lot of us a clydes yet love mountain biking.

I'd test ride the Hoss and if it's comfortable I'd buy it.


On a side note, frames for clydes aren't really an issue. They all hold up pretty much the same. Things to look for for clydes are heavier duty rims, bigger fatter tires, stiffer spings for the forks and seats with chromoly rails, and double bolt seatpost clamps.

L8R
heatsecr
06-07-04, 09:48 AM
a2psyklnut - Thanks for the advice!! I am seeing alot of folks saying good things about the Kona and I think I'll try that out.

I spoke to a friend about his Santa Cruz and he swears by it, but I really don't see alot of them out there. Have you rode a Cruz or has anyone else? I like their factory packages, but I don't know if it would be a good choice for a big guy. I need to get out and test drive' em.

Again Thanks -

Maelstrom
06-07-04, 10:07 AM
The santa Cruz is fine for a big guy. But I would still get the Hoss. Even better for a big guy :)

Also I think the geometry is slightly different and the Santa Cruz is a little more slack (better for djing) then the hoss...
jae33w
06-07-04, 12:01 PM
I have a SC Chameleon and the Heckler. Mine have all been great bikes, I too am a big guy (6'4", 240lbs) and they have held up just fine. The Hoss would be a good bike but a bit heavy though, my SC bikes are 26lbs and 28lbs. Not a lot of difference but if you are looking to save a couple of pounds SC might be the way to go. Just my 2 cents....
heatsecr
06-07-04, 07:26 PM
Hey Gang -

Stirring the pot of info some more.... what bikes have the largest top tube? I see that Cannondale and Gary Fisher have some large frames out there for big fellas. I am going to test ride a Hoss no matter what. But before I lay out the bling bling I want to check all options. Do you guys think its better to go with a dual suspension vs. a hard tail? I was initially staying away from the dual susp. but if it gives more room - its worth the extra cash. I really appreciate all your advice, even if its just 2 cents worth!!! :D

Thanks - Brad