Well, the 19" bike I tested was OK and it was the largest bike I could find locally to test. I had doubts about buying a much larger bike without having a chance to test it first so I decided to go with a 20".

What was the LBS staff's take on your size selection? And will they allow you to exchange it for a bigger frame if necessary? I only ask because though my frame is a bit too big, it's still doable- I'm right at 6' with shoes on and the bike is 22" riding on 26" wheels...

To be honest I forgot to ask about their exchange policy :) I just assumed that if 19" feels quite ok, the 20" will do too. I was really concerned about ordering a too large bike. On some of the 19"-s (with the seat adjusted) when sitting, I could barely touch the ground. So basically when pedalling my leg was almost fully travelling down. And I also really want to get my bike already and not spend another X weeks travelling to distant bike shops on a bus in hopes to find and test a 20"+ frame :)

In the shop I ordered from they suggested to go with 20", in another shop I've been to, I was advised to go with 19". That's partly why I am scared away from 20"+ unless I have a chance to try it. In any case, those several inches don't make a critical difference?

Also, I am not sure, may be I am converting it wrong. I know that my height is 191cm and the inches thing comes from me converting it to that system, so may be I did something wrong. :o

So long as the LBS helped you determine the size, since they could observe you, then that's good enough for me. :). Just remember to keep your tires inflated properly- it'll make your life easier (trust me :o).

I'm 180cm and I ride on a 19". Based on that, I'd say 20" would probably be more comfortable, but you should ride one and see for yourself. The difference is noticeable, so don't skip the test-ride.

I've contacted LBS and they say that if the size doesn't fit me, I can bring the bike back and re-order a different one. So I guess it's one potential problem less :)

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/2747/img1800pc.jpg

Just returned from the shop; tomorrow is going to be a fun day :D
So far 20" seems to be a perfect fit, I really can't imagine how I would ride a larger bike. However we'll see how it goes after a real, long, test ride tomorrow.

Hey everbody! Eugene has a new bike! I say, it's time to celebrate!

Everbody yell, Hip! Hip! Hooray!...Hip! Hip! Hooray!

Yeeaaay for Eugene and his brand new Raleigh Talus 29er Comp! :love::lol::speedy::lol::love:

And what a gorgeous bike, too!

Congrats, Eugene! :thumb:

- Slim :)

Nice bike!


Take off the kick stand though.

OMG. The thread is finally over, except for the ride report. Hurrah!

Nice looking bike eugene_b! I see you have a floor pump and cleaner for that white fork :-)

Just popping in to say that is one good lookin' bike! I was admiring one much like it at my local Performance Bike, lol.

I feel your pain on finding the right size, just in the opposite direction. :P

Once again thanks everyone for helping with the bike selection process! ^_^

The test rides were awesome and I am really happy that I went with mtb, it allowed me to discover lots of fun places such as these:
http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/8007/img1804rf.jpg

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/1945/img1830wp.jpg

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/9934/img1832yw.jpg

Also I found there three guys on motorcycles and all covered in mud who were doing approximately the same stuff as me :D

The ride to work has been quite successful too, I really can't imagine leaving those fields and trails for a busy road even if it would make difference in travel time.

Also I love the sound that wheels make when I ride fast enough and they push air apart (usually on paved road) :D

Wow, what nice looking roads. Yes, THOSE roads scream for mountain bike. Good choice. If you are going to ride on the road, you can always put on skinnier tires without nobbies and you'll have less rolling resistance. Nice looking bike and great looking riding trails.

Told ya:thumb:

You may want to get some better meats (aka tires) for those trails, however. The stock tires are nice for smoother trails but they'll come up lacking for roots and rocks. Otherwise, get out there and have fun.