Marin Bobcat 2010 - 11

rocketboots

Hi, first post here.

At the moment I'm riding a 2007 Bobcat Trail, which I like because its fairly light and nippy (Even if the Spinner forks are a bit stiff!)

I was thinking of upgrading the forks and a few other bits since Im starting to do more XC in addition to my usual commute Then I thought I may as well put the money towards a brand new bike.

I'd like to hear some informed opinions on the 2010-11 Bobcat, or any alternatives which offer better value/components.

Specs can be found here: http://www.marin.co.uk/2011/bikepage.php?ModNo=11BT

Cheers - R

thel33ter

You would be better off upgrading the your current bike, for £650 you could put a 2011 10sp SLX groupset + wheels on and a second hand Rockshox Reba fork or a New Rockshox Recon Gold RL for about £600 in total.

http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/Bike+Shop ... s_2559.htm

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Rockshox-Reba-SL- ... 04fef26988

http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/Bike+Shop ... OLD-RL.htm

The frame has not really changed over the years so this is probably a much better way to go.

supersonic

The 2011 version is poor value. A fork you see on 300 quid bikes, and other parts. Nice frame, budget kit.

rocketboots

Thanks for the advice guys

I'll need to budget in the cost of getting the new parts installed since the processes involved are beyond my expertise.

Cheers - R

thel33ter

That would be tops £100's I'd say, maybe less depending on the shop.

Most of it is quite easy and will help you understand how the bike works and make servicing stuff in the future easier. You should be able to do everything apart from the bottom bracket and possibly the brakes depending on hose length.

Andy!

Deffo upgrade if the bike fits and you like it.

New fork will do wonders. You could work out the cost savings of buying carefully online in the sales and used and then paying to have it fitted or if you buy parts from your local shop they may fit for free for some items or massively reduce the cost for others.

e.g. my local places will fit a headset for free if I buy from them.

Fork fitting is very simple but something you will probably want them to do as you can cock itup: cut steerer, fit star nut and whack it in and tighten stem, top cap, fit disc caliper and secure brake hose. Wont cost much to get them to fit it if anything if you buy from them.

For the drivetrain I would be tempted to get them to take a look and see if anything needs replacing or if it just needs a service and new chain. No point in chucking out kit that still has lots of life left in it. Save the money for when it does wear out and then upgrade.

Brakes - easy to fit but not to bleed/shorten hoses so again seek out help with that one.

ride_whenever

The best thing would be to speak to your local bike shop and see what they recommend.