blow-fish

So having a choice problem. Am bidding on imaculate XO1 2001 online or can get a 2003 SH Jake for £500 (halfprice)

I come from Mountain bike back ground - race a Klein hardtail - so a harsher ride isnt the problem. I am looking to use the bike for commuting (short <10 miles) but also want to put panniers on for 6 week trip around C*BA - carrying around 15kilos. Can anyone tell me the differences between these bikes? Ride characteristics, strength etc.

Many thanks

Richard

roadrage

I don't have much experience with the Trek, but the Jake is a great bike and would be good for the riding you describe. Also, makes a great trail bike and handles singletrack too. Kona's are usually built well and from my experience, can take the abuse.

velocipedio

there's no comparison. the kona is a real cross bike. the trek is a bike that looks like a cross bike. the kona has an easton ultralite frame and shimano 105 components, the trek has sora on a generic aluminum frame.

AlanK

I know this is probably a late reply, but I thought I'd give you my two cents. I have a 2001 XO with 2002 components. I've generally been happy with it, though it is more of a general purpose road bike than an actual cyclocross. It's been very reliable, and overall I'm happy with it. The only real complaint I have is the geometry; the top tube is kind of long, making the bike somewhat uncomfortable for long rides.

I discovered Jake the Snake recently, and it looks like a very good choice. It has a durable, light frame and a comfortable, upright riding position (sort of unusual for a cyclocross bike). The only thing I'd be worried about for your intended usage is the gearing; if your using it for any kind of commuting or touring, the gearing is pretty high. It's pretty easy to switch out the rear cassette, though.

Another bike I've looked at is the Lemond Propad. It's also a versatile cyclocross bike. It's set up is similar to Jake the Snake, but the Propad has a Reynolds steel frame - which of course makes it a little heavy, but more comfortable. Good luck whatever you decide

Limba

I'd get the Kona.It's a nice 'cross bike.