Originally Posted by
coffinjewel
2700 is double my budget lol. The Expat seems nice, still a little modern and flashy for me but I'll try and find a Jamis dealer in my area if the Fairdale Weekender i'm looking at doesn't suit my needs. I know that the Rove also comes in steel as well and since my LBS is a kona dealer I might look at the steel version even if it's out of my budget. I'll totally have to test ride some of these first because I have no idea what these bikes will feel like, I haven't ridden anything newer than the 80s except for an aluminum norco hybrid that I hated very much
It might be a bunch more but it is such a great bike however the Expat is still a fine machine. The bike isn't particularly flashy, it is a decent paint job but the color doesn't scream out at you like some of the neon and flouro stuff that is coming out. Ride a few bikes and buy the best one for you. If it goes over the budget but you know you love it and will ride it a lot and take care of it then go for it. You will be happier in the end even if your wallet is less happy right now. Spend on the bike you want not on the bike you want to upgrade, it can save you money in the end.