dmbisbest

Hello,

I am in the final stages of making a decision on my first bike in a long time... I want something to cruise around town (Minnneapolis) and take the kids for rids (3 and 7 yo).

I really like the look of the Swobo Folsom and the DC PK Ripper... I know the Ripper is a fixed gear and I am ok w that but does anyone have direct experience with either of these bikes?

Thanks in advance!

Thanks,
John

xkillemallx16

Take your business to the LBS - they'll fit you, help you choose the right bike for the price, and you can take it in for adjustments, locks, helmets, anything else you need.

dmbisbest

Thanks for the input... I have been in to a few local bike shops already. Most dont sell the bikes that I am looking for...

xkillemallx16

What kind of bike are you looking for?

dmbisbest

something to just knock around town with kids. i started by looking at beach cruisers and have slowly started to move over to bikes like the folsom, pk ripper fixed, trek soho and felt brougham...

xkillemallx16

Test ride one at your lbs. Believe me on this one. Pick the one that fits you, and the one you like riding the best.

Dr. Banzai

Get the PK Ripper from our site sponsor, bikesdirect.com. And be nice to it - I think it will be worth something down the road.

shubonker

Sure, that's when bell bottom pants come back in style too.

squeegeesunny 

The matte black one doesnt look too bad. Decent parts, decent bike for a decent price. If they didn't have Kilo TT pro on sale, i wouldve gotten the PK ripper.

gt35built

I understand how they wanted to do the same dropouts like the old bmx frames but IMO they are hideous. Not that the appearance of the dropouts would make or break the deal, but there are many other options in the same price range.

Squirrelli

Really?

The only thing I like about that PK Ripper is the Sugino cog carrier system, maybe the chain too.

seau grateau

I'd go with the Folsom, I just think that bike is badass. Also, I've seen PK Rippers snapped completely in half.

lverhagen

I bought the Swobo Folsom back in '08 when it was fairly new. I have used it as my go-to commuter and throw-around bike (It was my only bike until earlier this year). It is basically weather proof with the aluminum frame and coaster brake and the only thing I changed was the saddle. Also, the parts lineup isn't too bad with nothing failing as of yet after two years of no maintenance besides wiping it down when it's dirty and oiling the chain. However, the price plus shipping may not be the best considering the other options on the market. Honestly, if you are set on a new bike then I wouldn't shy away from recommending the Folsom, but if you are willing to go used you could quite find something that would fit your needs just as well on craigslist or the like.

Cheers