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View Poll Results: cannondale scalpel vs. EPX terrashark
cannondale scalpel
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EPX terrashark
0
0%
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need efficient full-suspension bike

Old 02-25-07, 02:10 AM
  #1  
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need efficient full-suspension bike

So I am in the market for a full suspension mountain bike, and although I have a few choices, am a little unsure of what to get. I don't ride all that much, so much of my time riding it will be spent on the road. When I do ride, it's not intense downhill or free-riding at all, primarily XC. Considering that, I want something that will be light and efficient enough to be practical for extended city travel, but that can also handle at least some degree of rough terrain. I've been looking at the cannondale scalpel as a candidate, as it seems to fit the mold pretty well. However, I also may have the opportunity to acquire an EPX terrashark carbon fiber bike. As opposed to the scalpel's short travel it has about 4 in front and rear, and is a single pivot desgin. It's quite light, but I don't know if it's really practical for my needs, as I'm not going to be doing anything too rough when I get out, and the added travel might make city riding very difficult. If anyone has thoughts on these two bikes, other suggestions, or general advice, chime in. If anyone has personal experience with or knows much about the EPX terrashark, that would be especially helpful input as well.
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Old 02-25-07, 04:39 AM
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I've only seen one terra shark in person and it was terribly constructed. The shock mount was separating from the frame.
I would go with the scalpel. You might also want to consider the specialized epic if only for the brain shock that locks itself out on smooth surfaces.
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Old 02-25-07, 08:39 AM
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Of those two, definately go with the Cannondale. I'd have to agree that an Epic would be a good dual suspension choice as well.

It seems you should be buying a hardtail. If you mostly ride in the city, suspension will only slow ya down. Any "good" hardtail will handle some degree of rough terrain. Look at the Specialized Stumpjumper. 24lb range hardtail that will "handle" some degree of rough terrain, but will definately shine in your city riding.

Last edited by ed; 02-25-07 at 08:54 AM.
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Old 02-25-07, 10:21 AM
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There needs to be an "Other" selection for this poll. I'd agree that a hardtail is likely going to fit the bill quite well.
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Old 02-25-07, 11:51 AM
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I'd say scalpel.
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Old 03-09-07, 11:26 AM
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Specialized Epic with the brain is nice. Pretty much a hardtail until there is bump compression so that's as efficient as you can get.
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Old 03-09-07, 08:31 PM
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Ride the Epic and the Scalpel and pick the one you like best. Can't go wrong with either one.

But I also agree with chelboed and think you may want to give a hard tail a serious look. Run 2.3's on it and you pretty much have as much suspension as a Scalpel or an Epic. Less cost, less trouble and less weight than a comparably equipped FS bike.
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Old 03-09-07, 11:59 PM
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Can't help but think a hardtail would be more appropriate for you.
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Old 03-10-07, 12:01 AM
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i would have voted, but i couldn't decide.
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Old 03-10-07, 12:04 AM
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i would have voted, but the poll was closed.
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Old 03-10-07, 12:05 AM
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Originally Posted by FreeRidin'
i would have voted, but the poll was closed.
oops....silly me. i didn't even notice that!
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Old 03-10-07, 12:49 AM
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Originally Posted by Duane
Ride the Epic and the Scalpel and pick the one you like best. Can't go wrong with either one.

But I also agree with chelboed and think you may want to give a hard tail a serious look. Run 2.3's on it and you pretty much have as much suspension as a Scalpel or an Epic. Less cost, less trouble and less weight than a comparably equipped FS bike.
I'm not sure about that... having the extra few inches is nice for grip and control. Plus you want thin/light tires to reduce rolling resistance and rotational mass.
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Old 03-10-07, 12:53 AM
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specialized stumpjumper fsr
any xc single-pivot w/ spv shock
ellsworth truth

if you go hardtail, keep the tires light and get a thudbuster st seatpost.
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