T
The Captain
Guest
I've been doing some shopping for a new mountain bike. I've had mine for 10+ years, (Univega Alpina
Uno) and it's time for something new. I'm not a hardcore singletrack biker, but I want something
versatile that will last for another 10+ years.
I'm working within the $500-600 range for a decent hardtail. I've narrowed it down to a couple of
bikes, but am having trouble making a final decision. I've looked at mtbreview.com and it's helpful
but I'd like more input. Here are my finalists:
Candidate 1: Raleigh M80
I'd like the disc model, but it's totally unavailable in my area (Denver), and besides, the non-disc
model is fine for my needs. Componetry is great, Shimano LX across the board. Feels pretty good, the
shock it marginal (Judy TT). Frame is okay, but not great.
Candidate 2: Gary Fisher Tassajara
Same story with the disc model - can't find one in the Denver area. Frame is nice, componetry is
so-so. Mixed Deore, but you get a slightly better fork, a Pilot TT. Seat sucks, like sitting with a
brick wedged in your a**.
As far as riding both of them, just what can you tell in the parking lot of the LBS anyway?
They both seemed similar to me. I've also looked at the Trek 4900, Marin Palisades Trail,
Specialized Hardrock, Giant Iguana, etc, but the above two seem to stand out as the best buys
in the price range.
If you've got something to say about either bike, or want to tell me about something I haven't
considered, please do so.
Thanks -
Jeff
Uno) and it's time for something new. I'm not a hardcore singletrack biker, but I want something
versatile that will last for another 10+ years.
I'm working within the $500-600 range for a decent hardtail. I've narrowed it down to a couple of
bikes, but am having trouble making a final decision. I've looked at mtbreview.com and it's helpful
but I'd like more input. Here are my finalists:
Candidate 1: Raleigh M80
I'd like the disc model, but it's totally unavailable in my area (Denver), and besides, the non-disc
model is fine for my needs. Componetry is great, Shimano LX across the board. Feels pretty good, the
shock it marginal (Judy TT). Frame is okay, but not great.
Candidate 2: Gary Fisher Tassajara
Same story with the disc model - can't find one in the Denver area. Frame is nice, componetry is
so-so. Mixed Deore, but you get a slightly better fork, a Pilot TT. Seat sucks, like sitting with a
brick wedged in your a**.
As far as riding both of them, just what can you tell in the parking lot of the LBS anyway?
They both seemed similar to me. I've also looked at the Trek 4900, Marin Palisades Trail,
Specialized Hardrock, Giant Iguana, etc, but the above two seem to stand out as the best buys
in the price range.
If you've got something to say about either bike, or want to tell me about something I haven't
considered, please do so.
Thanks -
Jeff