mchoi32

I've gone through about 50 pages so far so I will go ahead and post this with the information that I have obtained already.

I want to accomplish a couple of things in this bike: I need a small bike, one that is tailored for flatland/street with an emphasis on flatland. I'd like the bike to be light and as small as possible because I wanted to use it to get around campus as well.

I am 5'7" 135 pounds, 21 years old.

My budget is $600.00. I know most beginner complete bikes are great around 300 but is there anything that is worth paying double for?

I know many recommend the DK 6-Pack. But with a budget of double that of a DK 6-Pack, I was wondering if there was anything more worthwhile.

Also, what additional parts would be necessary for the one that you recommend? I think an extra pair of pegs to start off right? Most bikes only come with 2...

I know that these threads come up often so I tried to do my best to research as much as possible.

kjohnnytarr

if you are going to be using your bike to get around your campus, and your campus is larger than a Wal-mart, you will hate it. Especially in the rain, or when you're in a hurry. Voice of experience. Get two bikes if you're looking to spend 600; One BMX, one more practical (SSFG, anyone?)

mchoi32

OK, so most flatlanders are not comfortable enough to ride around a large campus (btw, I got Ohio State University)?

gnr rocker

get a 2-hip playboi, they look trick

wethepeople

BMX's suck for transportation, although you can still ride them 10+mi, it's not very efficient or comfy. For 600 I would try to find a deal on a Integral Bel-Air, but thats not designed for flatland as much as street.

wds178

Your best bet for a flatland-oriented complete that could be used for light street would be the DK Signal. At $300, I'd then use the extra $$$ for upgrading the cranks from 1pc to a decent 3pc. Maybe slap a better gearing for pedaling around campus. It comes w/ 28-12, switch the 28t sprocket w/a 33t to get a better riding (non-flatland specific) gear.
-Bill

mchoi32

I was looking at that bike. I think I am more about trying to make flatland riding a hobby so transportation isn't too paramount. If the Bel-Air isn't too fit for flatland then an alternative would be much appreciated.

BTW, what are the key factors involved in picking out a great flatlander for a person of my size and weight?

mchoi32

On the subject of upgrading: I guess I need more research I am not too familiar with bike parts. I guess I would prefer a complete without too much of a need to upgrade..

Hmm I think I am maybe looking for a bike that can't exist. Cuz I would really like it to be comfortable to ride but flatlanders arn't that kind of animal is it?

kjohnnytarr

I'm telling you man, for that kind of money, just get two bikes. One for business, one for pleasure.

new_dharma

yep-yep (double +1 on that)

great BMX and a slightly larger Urban-Assault SS...well within your budget...

callumrides

KHE make a flatland bike but im not sure about the price. Go to your local bike shop and enquire. If they are a decent bike shop they will put some effort into looking into designated flatland bikes.

KinetikBiker

These bikes are great, they even come with a spine and some extra parts!

FitRider 921

Haha.

mchoi32

The Integral Bel Air was recommended and it looks very nice. Can you guys comment on this? Do you think most BMX bikes will fit into a Honda Civic backseat or trunk btw?

FitRider 921

The Bel Air is a fantastic bike and you should buy it. It is not setup for flatlanding, but is great for everything else. My bike fits in my back trunk a bit of twisting and turning. I wouldn't recommend putting your bike in the back seat. Chances are, you will rip up your seats unless you put towels over all sharp parts (such as pegs and rear triangle and such).

EDIT: I stayed home sick today (although I really wasn't that sick, but I was really sick yesterday). My mom went out to the dentist, so I went outside and rode around and did some hops. I'm better than I ever was at balancing during fakies, but I'm still having a lot of trouble turning around. As for hops, I am up to about 2 to 2.5 feet. Everytime I land, I feel like my backwheel wobbles more and more.

cwt341

Just for some adivce for you guys im not sure if it will help but Ohio State University is a pretty big campus so he will need something suitable for riding fairly decent distances and in large crowds of people and something not real ice as it will get stolen or vandilized.

kjohnnytarr

yeah, I only bring my fake ice bikes to hight-theft areas.

cwt341

Yea i know there's some real high theft and rough areas around there.

KinetikBiker

DK Four Pack.

Or

Fit Flow Park or Trails.

And a bike lock.

mchoi32

How hard is it to assemble a shipped bike? Do you recommend a bike specialist?

cwt341

A bike liek will do you ok but they like to slash your tires or steal your tired or your seat.
Usally its just like minor assembly like putting the bars on, front tire on maybe the seat post into the bike nothing real difficult