surly crosscheck vs. redline conquest
 

newbie interested in all around bikewith a few cx races possibly in the future. I think I have narrowed it down to these two bikes. I am trying to stay at about $1000. what are your opinions?

If you want to race, don't get the Surly. It is a greal all around bike. But you'll be much happier on a Conquest if you race it.

the redline is light, and lots of people like theirs. it's probably more ideal for a race. the lower end ones have an aluminum fork i think, which can mean a harsh ride, so i'd consider it less than ideal for a commuter or tourer.

the surly is versatile. it can be ss, has rack and fender mounts, no disc tabs though. it's steel which is heavier but lots of people (myself included) believe that it rides smoother and is more suitable for an everyday bike. lots of people also race their crosschecks (replacing the steel fork with a carbon one cuts the weight a bit) and do quite well with them.

i don't think you'll go wrong with either, but for a bike that's primarily an all rounder and secondarily a race bike, i'd go with the crosscheck.

I agree completely with dirtyphotons, if the primary use is an all arounder or commuter, with a bit
of racing thrown in, the Surly fits the bill nicely. The Redline makes a better race bike.

I kind of have the same situation, I have a 2001 Surly Crosscheck I use for commuting, and
all around, maybe small tour bike, and a 2000 Kona Jake the Snake for my trail/race bike. I
would liken the Kona more to the Redline.

thanks
 

sounds like the surly is probably a better. choice.
question: do use regular pedals or clip on's during errands and short commutes?

I use clipless, Speedplay Frogs with some hikeable Shimano mtb shoes.
Fairly street friendly shoes, easy to walk in.

Get those "rodeo pedels" from Nashbar with the clipless on one side and the platorms on the other.

Everyone comments on the harshness of all Al fork, front end on the Conquest.
I got a killer deal on a Redline Conquest frame and fork ('05 model, previously built as a floor model for $199) anyway..... I was concerned about the 'harshness' of the ride. I have not seen this.
I even have Al bars.... I use a FSA stem, seatpost and crankset. The 30" Kenda's pumped to 70+psi makes it a pleasant ride on crushed gravel and road.

I am not finding the harshness everyone speaks of.
Perhaps the 'Al is harsh' sheeple are echoing what was always told to them. Riding road for 60+ miles is different from trail/cross riding.

With my weight shifted onto the back wheel more often, I am finding it negligible.

With components that can be switched out, inflation rates and tires, etc. you can easily negate any perceived harshness of the Al ride.

I've ridden all materials extensively, and am trying to give you as balanced a viewpoint as possible.