Originally Posted by
Darth Lefty
More expensive bikes are more tolerant. It's true! If you can find a late 90's or early 00's cross country MTB, at LX or XT level, it will have a threadless headset that doesn't get stuck like a quill, the fork will be rebuildable or you could upgrade easily, many of the components will be aluminum, or stainless or plated steel, its bearings will be sealed, it will be 9-speed and there are still lots of compatible brakes and shifters and drivetrain bits available. A Stumpjumper is a good example but there's something similar from every major brand.
that's exactly what I'm thinking. I tested a Jamis dakar XLT 1.0 yesterday. had a large frame and it just didn't feel right. I had the seat up pretty high (not beyond max, but still pretty high). I may need an XL frame. I'm going to the LBS over the weekend to see about trying out XL frames.
I really like this
Schwinn Rocket 2.0. I'd snap it up but considering most L frames have been just a bit cramped for me (i feel like I want to shift back in the saddle, but there's nowhere to go), I'm not keen on buying it. Standover is 31" and my inseam is 33. seems about right, but still, no way to tell.
I went on Schwinn's site and looked up every dealer in my area. No one within 50 miles has one in stock. I'd have to order it.