Lots of Questions

Blitzdb

I'm sorry if i'm repeating any previous questions but i've tried not to

Right I've not been on a bike in a few years and want to get back in the Saddle.

I'm thinking of buying a Hardtail for general trail riding and just messing about cross country and these for about £500 seem likely choices.

Genesis Core 00
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/gen ... e-ec017148

Specialized Hardrock Pro
http://www.cyclesuk.com/110-258442

Carrera Fury

Does anyone know of any good shops in East Kent (Dover, Ramsgate, Canterbury Area) I've looked on the tinternet and have yet to find anything really good. I'm just curious to know if there's any hidden gems in the area as (after reading the posts on here) i've realised it's key to go and test out a bike before buying it.

Hydraulic brakes, how easy are they to maintain? I'm fairly mechanically compitant but just need to know how time consuming/difficult they are to keep up with.

And finally does anyone know any good trails in the kent region aswell?

Cheers

nicklouse

hydraulic brakes are basic fit and forget items.

when people start fiddling is when things go wrong.

spannering info info on Park tools.

supersonic

Have a read of the what hardtail guide for general comments on these bikes, and I'd also doa forum search as have been lots of people buying these lately!

A well set up hydro brake should only need bleeding say once a year (or longer) and the pads changing as required.

scally56

my friend has a Core 20, its a nice bike. I think its well set up, but then i'm no expert. I think everyone will tell you the same thing and that is to try them both out along with a few others so you get an idea of what you like/enjoy.

Simon

JxL

There was a Core 20 for £560 on offer (search google).

I would say well worth it, comes with longer travel forks and geometry, well spec'ed up! Will save you upgrading later on.

ShaggyRS6

Victory Cycles In Rainham Kent is where i got my Spark.

great service

Blitzdb

Thanks for the advice everyone, I'm currenty offshore on an oil rig and can't wait to get back to look for a bike. It's good to be able to look at them all on here but will be even better to be able to sit on one.