Soma Double Cross DC or Saga?
11-03-09, 01:29 AM
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Soma Double Cross DC or Saga?
Hey all, the computer lab is about to close so I'll keep this short and check back tomorrow. I'm looking into getting a touring frame for world touring and I've got my eye on the Soma Double Cross DC, or the Saga. Has anyone had any experiences with the DC? I saw the Saga post and it looked like an awesome bike, but I'd still like to see see how the DC works for touring.
Ultimately, I know I should ride them, but I haven't got around to that yet (I'll be making some calls to some bike shops.) I just want to know how a DC would stack up against the Saga for really huge tours.
Thanks (be back tomorrow)
Ultimately, I know I should ride them, but I haven't got around to that yet (I'll be making some calls to some bike shops.) I just want to know how a DC would stack up against the Saga for really huge tours.
Thanks (be back tomorrow)
11-03-09, 03:40 AM
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I have the DC but would not recommend it for heavy loads. I found that even 15 lbs on the rear rack reduced stability. While the double Cross would do better on tour than most road bikes, the Saga or even the Smoothie ES would do much better on tour. I'm going to add a Saga as a second bike. The Double Cross is a very good bike for century rides, fitness rides and easier off-road fun. I can even keep up with faster riders on my group ride with the DC.
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When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.
When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.
Last edited by Barrettscv; 11-03-09 at 03:48 AM.
11-03-09, 08:02 AM
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The Saga would be much better for touring than the DC because it's designed for it. That is, it has longer chain stays to prevent heel strike on panniers, a longer headtube to allow for a more upright position, stronger tubing for carrying loads, more mounts for front and rear fenders and racks, an extra water bottle mount on the downtube. The DC would be a good choice for commuting, particularly if you like to ride on trails and unpaved roads, but Saga would be better for commuting and touring.
11-03-09, 01:20 PM
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Ok so it's basically down to the LHT or the Saga now (sorry, forget to add that last night). They seem about equal, but I don't think there are enough reviews on the Saga yet to make a good call to be honest. Any ideas?
Edit: Might I add that is a damn fine Double Cross you have there. =D
Edit: Might I add that is a damn fine Double Cross you have there. =D
11-03-09, 01:31 PM
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Go with the frame that fits you best. The Saga and LHT have significantly different geometries. The Saga has taller head tubes and shorter top tubes in a given size. Personally, I would pick the Saga because Surley fits are "longer and lower" than I prefer, but your fitting needs might be very different than mine. I wouldn't worry about the Saga being a new model because Soma has been around for a while and the technology and parts (tubing) are not that different than their other bikes.
11-25-09, 05:01 PM
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If you're doing world touring you may want to look at bike that has 26 inch wheels. Outside of the US and Canada 26 inch wheels are the norm. You may hay trouble finding tubes or tires for 700c wheels. Older mountain bikes make great touring bike IMO. Good Luck. Ps. I own the Soma DC, Awesome bike, but not for fully loaded touring.
11-26-09, 01:26 AM
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If you're doing world touring you may want to look at bike that has 26 inch wheels. Outside of the US and Canada 26 inch wheels are the norm. You may hay trouble finding tubes or tires for 700c wheels. Older mountain bikes make great touring bike IMO. Good Luck. Ps. I own the Soma DC, Awesome bike, but not for fully loaded touring.
