Opinions please on Haro, Merida or Giant??

Teknosweep

Hi, I've been looking at three different MTB's and can't quite decide on which one to opt for.

Suspension Lock-Out and total bike weight are a consideration.

I've seen a Giant X5,Seems ok but not sure about rear sus as no lock-out - any opinions on pedal bob??

Also looked at a Haro Xeon,looks like it might be quite heavy and most reviews are a bit unclear as to whether they like the bike or not,anyone ridden one for any length of time??

And a Merida Trans-Mission 500D,which i think might be the best of the three.

The problem with the Haro and Merida is i've only seen them online and can't find a shop near Glasgow that stocks them.

If anyone can offer some opinions on all of the above bikes it would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance - T.

supersonic

I think the Merida is reviewed on this site. As is the trance.

What else does your local shop stock?

jay12

here is the Merida review http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/mountain/product/trans-mission-tfs-500-d-09-34132
the giant review http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/mountain/product/trance-x5-09-32603
hope this helps

Teknosweep

I'm going to be getting the bike through http://www.cycletoworknow.com/ so i'm kinda limited.

My local shop http://www.dalescycles.com/ only have the Giant x5 in stock.

I think i might opt for the Merida 500D as it seems to be a mid point between the Haro Xeno and the Giant x5.

The Haro's quite heavy by the looks of it at about 35lbs and the Giant has no rear suspension lockout.

The Merida sits at about 32lbs with suspension lock out on front and rear.

Anyone think i'm making a mistake??

The Spiderman

I`d go for the Trance.Very litlle bob from the maestro suspension,good basis for upgrading.

Teknosweep

I might take up your suggestion seeing the Giant x5's the only one i can physically try for size.It's the lightest of the lot and it's a name that i know.

Haro i've not really head of or seen at any tracks that i use and i know Merida are well known for frames but as for complete bikes,not so sure.

decisions, decissions...!!!!

janwal

Teknosweep have a look at Pauls Cycles.They are still offering the Giant yukon fx1 for £560 !! http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.p ... 1b4s1p1748. Got mine in March. I'm 55 years old, ride mainly track/towpath/road but it has such good easy climbing power and it doesn't tire me out at all.My old Cube acid I was always last up the hills now I'm first up my friends can't believe the transformation.I haven't changed so it must be the bike,the geometry must just suite my riding style.It has been brilliant so far.Bikeradar gave it 4 stars even at £900 (http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/article/g ... x-1-16365/ ) And if you want it you can get it on interest free credit.I'd give it serious consideration.I just tried a Trance for size in a local shop as frame is nearly the same ,medium was fine and there is plenty of adjustment in it to fine tune it.Comes all boxed up,you just need some of your own pedals (or order them with your bike) Had mine screwed together in 30 mins and was out on it.Any probs I have had were sorted out By Pauls over the phone no with no hassle.