DaPoppa

I have the Giant Sedona, it is durable, double walled wheels, 23" is the tallest, took some adjustment to get it comfy, I had to go to a Serfas Rx saddle https://www.serfas.com/saddle_product...D=1&SubCatID=2, huge improvement over stock. It takes the pressure off in the right places if you know what I mean.

I have gone through one set of tires and the wheels are true. Tough enough…

At least new you have a fresh bike, no worries.

DaPoppa

Quote:

Originally Posted by kansastdi

The cypress model has front shocks but they will lock out. Someone will always say to avoid shocks if you are a clyde. I agree. Front shocks are scary at 350 plus lbs.

These front shocks on the GIANT Sedona Dx can be adjusted firm enough so you don’t bottom out. I can say the front shocks keep your frame from flexing in the rough, and will buy some life for your rims, and frame. The down side is it sucks up some power from your pedal stroke so you have to work it a little more on the hard pack. Also it adds weight to the bike, the bike weighs in at about 45lbs, think about it , that is a lot of extra weight to carry.

Look at it this way, my son has a Fuji newest that weighs 21.5 lbs, it fly’s, my Trek 7.2 weighs in at 25lbs, my Giant 45lbs, I ride the Trek more often, I can get in 20 miles no problem, On the Giant I really have to push it to do 20 miles, I take many more breaks.

As far as popping spokes just make sure you down-shift before putting too much power to em while climbing hills.

I have a hill in my area that I can count on popping spokes in 4th gear, 3rd is ok, if I leave it in 4th S P R O I N G G G G...

exile

I wouldn't replace anything on the bike until it needs replacing. I would however invest in a lock, multitool, and floor pump with gauge. Learn some basic maintenance and you should be good to go.

If you will be riding on pavement then look for some slick tires. If it doesn't have bar ends think about adding some for more hand positions.

DaPoppa

The VELOCITY CHUCKKER MSW 26IN BLACK FRONT RIM is almost bomb proof, and will take the weight. Go with the 36 spokes, and see if you can swing at least getting the rear with SHIMANO XT M770 REAR $159.60 .... Still under $300.00 including the $125 for the bike, and you are all set to go and safe. This rim will out last that bike and will be with you on your next.

My biggest problem with stock wheels is popping the spokes out trying to climb hills in the wrong gear, too much power + wrong gear = ZPROINGGG, and once they pop they are never the same.

Just make sure that you know what size the spacing’s for your axels are. Mt bikes are usually 100mm front, and 135mm rear. Road bikes 100mm front and 130mm rear, and the older bikes with the 27 inch wheels are 126mm rear.

Go for at least 36 spokes for strength 40 spokes better, a Mountain bike that has a 26" wheel will take more weight, shorter spokes, beefy rim.

Arvadaman

How is the 820? Any pics?

B.Alive

I can't offer a lot of advice because I'm fairly new as well, but I can suggest that whatever bike you get you'll discover the things that you need (most likely want) after a few hours of riding and an obsession with reading about cycling online--or am I the only obsessive one???

ANYWAY, welcome to the forum! And welcome to your new healthy lifestyle. You can learn a lot on these pages. And get a ton of motivation!

Neil_B

Where are photos of the new bike?

jethro56 

While talking about biking a friend of mine stated that I had just traded one obsession for another. My reply... "And your point is?"

Kabong30

Definitely not the only one. I'm learning a lot though! Watches, guns, and now bikes. I consume pretty much any info I can find on cycling now. My wife tells me that she thinks it's an endearing quality, but I think I hear just a little sarcasm in there .