Mountain Biking - Would you take a Scalpel 3000 miles?

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twistlick
06-09-04, 04:42 PM
I've been trying to find a decent balance between a bike I can ride off road around where I live and one that I can take on a 6 month long trip down to south America (from LA). I like the Cannondale Scalpel 2000 and think it would be great for riding around where I live but I'd also like to take it on this trip with a Bob trailer. Many people have told me to get a touring bike but I like riding mountain bikes. The thing I love about the Scalpel is the lock off suspension but I'm concerned because I've heard some of the Cannondale parts would be difficult to get in semi-remote area's. Anybody have any suggestions for other Mountain bikes I should check out.

forum*rider
06-09-04, 04:47 PM
Kona
Specialized
Giant
Ironhorse

Just a few well-known companies.

BTW if you only like the lockout feature on the scalpel there are plenty of other mtb out there with lockout. Besides the scalpel only has like 1 1/2 of rear wheel travel. Thats only good for riding over pebbles ;)
iamlucky13
06-09-04, 10:30 PM
Maybe cyclocross? I don't know if they usually come with eyes for panniers, but if I ever need a "road" bike, I think I'll probably go that way.

Be sure to head over to the touring forum for advice on your trip.

Fugazi Dave
06-09-04, 10:34 PM
I would do horrible things for a Scalpel. I think that shows my stance on the matter.
MichaelW
06-10-04, 12:18 PM
MTBs are popular for touring, but you need the right kind, that wont break down miles from a bike shop.
Get a steel frame, no suspension fork, and plenty of braze-ons.
Soma do a good tourable old-school MTB frame.
http://www.somafab.com/groove.html
http://www.waterfordbikes.com/gunnar/data/mainframe.htm
or 26" tourer:
http://www.bgcycles.com/blt.html see the BLT-x

For a touring build spec, pay close attention to the BTL