divemed06

I was looking at getting a road bike but then found out about cyclecross bikes. I'm 6'4, 300lbs and have no intention of road racing; just looking for something to ride around town and local trails. I'll be going to my LBS for proper fitting etc.. but was wondering what people thought regarding these 3 bikes as starting point (within my price range). Any other suggestions. I'll probably do 80% road/20% trails.

Kona Jake/Jake the Snake
Specialized Tricross Sport Triple
Cannondale Cyclocross 6


Thanks!

knucklesandwich

You can't really go wrong with any of them, so at your size, I’d say concentrate on the shop that you feel will do the most to make sure you get a great bike fit. I know from experience that the Kona frames are great, and Cannondale is known for making awesome aluminum frames. Look for relatively high spoke count wheels and talk to the shop about the gearing with regards to your local terrain.

funurdiesel

I own the tricross sport and can say that it is a really good bike and very versatile. Lately, I've been riding the tricross exclusively... road and dirt. I'm planning on taking it for a short (4 day) tour next month as it makes a great touring bike. I've also raced cyclocross on it. In my opinion you can't find a better, more versatile bike for the price.
Cons for the tricross are that it's probably a little heavier than similar offerings. I think that most of the extra weight is due to the heavy wheels and mtb cassette. Just swapping the wheels with some fairly light road wheels and road tires will drop 3 pounds off the bike (no exaggeration).
I have found the components on the tricross to work very well. The shifting has been great, the triple provides a nice range of gears for riding off road and the brakes are adequate.

You're on the right track looking for a cyclocross bike.

AndrewP

The Jake the Snake is a double, while the Jake is a triple with Tiagra instead of 105. The triple would be more practical if you ever want to carry baggage up a hill. They are all nice versatile bikes.

knobster

Don't count out a touring bike either. They can go off road as well as a cross bike and have all the mounting points for racks and fenders. They can handle your weight very well also. Regardless of which bike you get, make sure you test ride a bunch before you make up your mind.

M_S

+1. I think a touring bike is best suited for your purposes. At least check them out. The Surly Long Haul Trucker would be a great option.

3MTA3

whatever you do get a new set of wheels. i guarantee you the ones that come on any bike you buy won't last long. a good set of hand-built, 36 hole wheels will be something you will need to invest in.