Hi Cigtech,
I've been following this thread as well as reading your previous review of the Denali. I wanted to thank you for posting your observations on this bike.

I've been away from a lifetime of cycling for about fifteen years and wanted to get back into it. I started off by visiting one of the LBS here and came out reeling from sticker shock. I asked the salesman (who, BTW, wouldn't meet my eyes after I told him that my budget was $300!) what the price was for their least-expensive road bike — he said $950. I don't even remember the brand as I was stunned by that figure.

After reading your threads, viewing other forums on cycling, checking out CL and other offerings, I decided to go with the Denali at either Walmart or Target. (Real men say the real name!) I'd rather have a new bike than buy somebody else's problems!

I got a look at the Denali at Walmart last week. It WAS poorly assembled, but I am confident that I can put one in proper form, as I completely rebuilt my last bike from the ground up. It was a freebie but served me well on many long rides before one of life's detours caused me to store it away. Making any needed adjustments won't be a problem at all.

I need to get some other financial obligations out of the way first but will let you know when I make the deal. I look forward to getting my stamina back to where it used to be and riding the routes around here. My area is a nice mix of hills and flats, so I'm curious to see how the Denali (and the older ME!) rides over them.

Thanks again!
Bill