F.T.W

Hey guys, I fell in love with cross and have started training for the 2009 season. But heres the thing, I need a bike.... I work at a shop so I've been digging around looking for something but it's hard to say what would be a decent bike without actually testing it out in the field.

So heres my question, obviously I'm looking for a race ready bike, and I can get a pretty damn good deal on an '09 Jake, And I can get decent deals on some other stuff, Like a Conquest Pro... Would the Jake be a good starter bike?

It's a little heavy, but I figure I can put it on a bit of a diet (and myself too). So what do you guys think?

paulwwalters

My approach to weight is that the more the bike weighs the faster your descents!

Seriously, it can't be that bad. I've heard that Jakes are perfectly good bikes. If you stick with racing you can get a better lighter wheelset and some lighter better components, or sell it off and buy a lighter rig altogether.

F.T.W

That's just the push I needed, thank you..

Cynikal 

My buddy races on a Jake the Snake for both A's and SS. They are great bikes.

MONGO!

I'd take a Conquest Pro or a Jake the Snake over a Jake if you want to race.

flargle

You almost always get more bang for your buck with a used bike. This time of the year, unfortunately, is exactly the wrong time of year to shop for a used cross bike. Seller's market.

drumbum

If you work at a shop, take a look at the brands you carry. Many times you can get a pro-deal/employee purchase discount straight from the dealer. If not, QBP always carries Salsa frames as well as closeout BMC frames that you could get at cost.

muteseh

BMC would be hot.

raceline

i have had 3 redline conquest's (2006 conquest / 2007 conquest) and just two weeks ago an 09 conquest pro , for what it's worth the redlines are the best in my opinion they are really commited to the cross scene , and they have the best bang for the buck , good luck