Cyclocross - Still don't know exactly what to get

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HeabyMetawHunta
10-13-09, 05:25 PM
After some suggestions in the Hybrid forum, I was redirected to check out a cyclo-cross bike! Im short (dunno if its and ride streets full of potholes but love the feel of a road bike. I don't mind spending around 6-700 on a good used bike, but don't have any clue what to look for. I was suggested a couple in the hybrid forum, but I thought I might ask this thread. any suggestions for someone who is relativley new to biking?

SpongeDad
10-13-09, 06:43 PM
Kona Jake the Snake is a good frame; you might be able to find one for that price used.
meanwhile
10-13-09, 07:19 PM
Kona Jake the Snake is a good frame; you might be able to find one for that price used.

Yes, the JTS is the obvious bike. Work out what size you need and browse ebay for a few weeks. Also look at the cyclocross bikes Giant make and perhaps the Specialized Tricross - although buying a used bike with carbon bits makes me nervous. Indeed, just try searching ebay for cyclocross bikes in your size. I got a barely used $1500+ bike that way for about a third of the new price.

The option would be to look at the bikes BikesDirect sell on the Internet. Budget some extra cash for getting the wheels and what have you tweaked locally. Their reputation is controversial, but the best BD bikes are said to be real bargains -

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/cross_bikes.htm

- that $500 clearance Fantom bike could be well be ideal for you. People have reported quite positively on Fantoms. Maybe ask around, do some searches. The frame is 7005 aluminum with a cromo fork - that's what I'd look for in a general purpose bike.