Cyclocross - New to CX

and need advice as to what I bike I should get. I'm generally new to cycling and I've been looking at predominantly CX bikes, because I like the versatility, especially considering that I live in Colorado. I don't plan on racing, just being able to enjoy the trails and roads on the weekends.

My price point is around $1000ish. I am looking at the Kona Jake the Snake, as I like the component set and reviews (and it's on sale at REI for 1100). Are there any other bikes I should consider? Thanks.

Check out the bikesdirect line...if you know your size and have a handful of tools they are unbeatable deals. I've built three for friends that weren't as savvy or had no tools and they are really nice for the money...you're creeping up in the range of the TI Phantom!

Specialized makes the Tricross that I'm especially partial to...kind of a mixed breed bike...half road, half cross.

If you like steel Surly makes damned fine bikes...heavy but bullet proof.

Enjoy it thought no matter what you get. I love, love, LOVE my cross bike...it's like having three bikes in one!

Mike

stewardmike03 (http://www.bikeforums.net/member.php?u=52271) is correct. bikesdirect.com has some very nice bikes in the $1,000 area. You are looking at a bike with 105 components for $1,100. bikesdirect.com has a Motobecane Fantom Pro CX bike for $999. It has Ultegra 10spd derailleurs and brifters, Ritchey hubs, Avid Shorty 4's, etc.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_cross_pro_IX.htm

Here is a like to rider reviews of the bike.
http://www.roadbikereview.com/cat/latest-bikes/cyclocross-bike/motobecane/PRD_372829_5670crx.aspx

Jake the Snake is a great bike, and for $1100 I'd jump on it.

REI is not quite an LBS, so you won't get quite the ongoing service you might from a true LBS, but it's much better than Bikes Direct in that regard. Plus, presumably, you can try the bike out to see how it feels before you buy.

If you're comfortable with assembly or can get help toward that end, the Motobecane offerings from Bikesdirect are pretty solid. I have a '08 Fantom Cross. Comes wth Tiagra shifters and some 105 derailleurs. Overall, it's tough to beat for $800. The Vuelta XRP wheelset, while a little heavy, is fantastic.

Thanks for the replies.

While bikesdirect.com sounds like a great deal, I have no experience putting together bikes and wouldn't feel comfortable doing it.

I test rode the Tricross and really liked it, but it is a little more than I want to spend.

Big fan of the Kona's here. I have the Major Jake and love just about every second I spend on that bike. It can do just about anything extremely well (except technical or high speed off road descending).

Thanks for the replies.

While bikesdirect.com sounds like a great deal, I have no experience putting together bikes and wouldn't feel comfortable doing it.

The "putting together" part is easy. Usually requires a wrench and some metric hex keys and perhaps a screwdriver. They have generic videos that you can watch. Anyone with any common sense can do it.

Adjusting the brakes and gears is another thing. There are a ton of videos about those adjustments too, but the best thing is to just take it to a good LBS and get a tune up. $50 or $75.

If you are serious about biking, and want to get the most out of your self and the bike, might I suggest a professional fit. $100 or so. Don't even need to have your bike first. They have adjustable bike simulators that allow them to custom fit that "bike" to you. Then you take all those measurements and find a bike that matches, or at least comes close the your ideal bike. I wish I had done that first, but I knew what I wanted and needed.

My next bike will be a CX. I think it will be a home build. If not, I'll get another BD bike most likely.