Hi,

OTOH something like the $150 GMC Denali would
be fine for commuting and most of the training,
and stuff most cheap MTB's used for a triathlon.



http://www.walmart.com/ip/GMC-Denali...edium/16203487

And end up costing less than updating a basic MTB.

Bike snobs seem to hate it with unreserved passion,
(which actually makes me like it a lot even more ),
but IMO its a very nice bike (and unusual*) for $150.

Good range of sizes, even a small ladies and 24" junior.

Very sensible choice of in reality practical tyre width.

Set it up properly, fit a rack and fenders, if either are
needed, eyelets are provided. Possibly also toeclips,
the pedals will take take half or full toeclips.


Spend the rest of the money on a nice used racing bike from CL.

rgds, sreten.

* The price point is met by a combination of using a lot of older
technology and cheaper stuff from MTB's. If it was available in
the UK I would of bought it instead of the budget bike I have.

GMC Denali 700c 20" Men's Road Bike:

• Medium bicycle fits riders 5'2"-5'8" with a stand over of 27"-30"
• Riding style: road bike
• Frame: Aluminum 7005 straight gauge
• Handlebar: Maesbend W: 430mm D:22.0mm
• Gearing: 21-speed
• Shifters: Shimano Revo SIS L2/R7 - very unusual, from MTB's
• Front Derailleur: Shimano FD-TZ 31 Index
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano RD-TZ30GS 7SPD
• Bike saddle: Cionelli Black - apparently it is not junk
• Seat post: HL Aluminum Micro Adjust 27.2 x 300 mm
• Brakes: Promax 501A Alloy Caliper Brake - very basic
• Brake levers: Promax BL-250AP Aluminum - nice at the price
• Bicycle tires: 700 x 32c tires for smooth ride and low-rolling resistance
  - a very good tyre width IMO for commuting and training
• Rims: Vitesse Alloy black 700CX14GX36H
• Pedals: VP-990S plastic body with steel cage - more likely alloy cage
• Fork: GMC Series 7000 steel
• Chain: KMC Z 51
• Crankset: Prowheel Alloy 335P6 28X38X48 170mm
  - very MTB, chainwheels are very likely steel
• Rear freewheel is 14,16,18,20,22,24,28
• Stem: Aluminum black EXT:100mm 0D.
• Alloy calipers and alloy brake levers for high-performance cycling
• High-profile alloy Vitesse road bike racing rims
• Dimensions: 68"L x 18"W x 40"H
• Assembly required for the GMC Denali Bike
• Warranty: lifetime frame, 1-year parts