Caldera/Avalanche 1.0/Rockhopper

I'm getting a new bike and have looked at lots i have to buy it from halfords which is a big pain in the censored but thats that. I want advice on which is the best value for money out of the kona caldera, gt avalanche 1.0 and the specialized rockhopper. my budget is a max of £700
Cheers
Cheers
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Rockhopper and Avalanche are both great bikes,but you really need to test tride both to see which suits best.
My experience of both bikes,is very positive.The Avalanche tends to be shorter and has a more upright riding position than the Rockhopper.
This is one occasion where you need to find a good lcal shop that stocks them,and try one for size,to see which feels best for you.
These are probably 2 of the most popular beginners rides,and woith good reason.
2010 Giant Defy Advanced
2016 Boardman Pro 29er
2016 Pinnacle Lithium 4
2017 Canondale Supersix Evo
tony
If not, ignore me.
If so, Halfords have a team who can source you any bike from pretty much any UK-imported/manufactured brand.
I got them to buy me a Rock Lobster 853 through the scheme this year, and I'm now mulling over what to buy next year.
Hope that helps.
you can spend £700 a lot better than halfords believe me
tony
I think there is a myth that Kona specs are poor based on bikes of a few years ago. The Caldera has a Tora 302 fork, Deore shifters and front mech, XT shadow rear mech and Stroker brakes. It is a spec match for the others in my eyes and potentially better. It also has a frame that is 1lb lighter than the 2007 bike. Personally, it would be my choice of the 3.
The thing is, this isn't the lightest of bikes granted, but it's very burly and has a real bomb proof and confidence inspiring feel to it. It's reassuringly chunky!
The 08 model looks a hell of a lot lighter and probably retains the same feel.
If '08 model is significantly lighter then you won't go far wrong IMHO. Hope that helps.