Kona Kula Delux '09 vs Specialized FSR XC 10

packtim

I am looking for a bit of advice, as I am looking to replace my 10 year old Specialized FSR XC comp,

I am looking to spend around a grand, and I have narrowed it down to these 2. I have found the Kona Kula Delux for £1000, reduced from the inital selling price of £1800, and the Specialzed FSR XC Expert for £1100. Partly it boils down to the age old argument of hardtail vs full suspension

I am mainly riding the South downs , a bit of road riding, and a few trails in the southern area, but I cant decide which to get.

The kit on the Kona is better spec, and its about 4lbs lighter, it looks a pretty good deal. The FSR isnt too heavy at 28lb (for the money), and the suspension can be locked out, I am also used to riding a FS bike.

I still cant decide which to get though! Any input of suggestions would be much appreciated.

Pudseyp

You like the Kona, but prefer full suss........how about these as a compromise ??
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.p ... 1b7s1p1557
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.p ... 1b7s1p1962

Of even this
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.p ... 1b0s1p2272

Slamdunkin

what about this....

Kona One20 Primo 2009. RRP £1,749 now £949 + Quidco

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Kona_ ... e=googleps

EDIT....maybe not then, it gets a shyte review

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/ ... rimo-33761

Pudseyp

3.5 out of five ain't bad...and agree at full price the spec ain't great for at a grand it is a good buy...

packtim

Thanks for that, I found a Corratec Airtech Glacier for 899 on Wiggle also, which looks a good spec, brakes might need upgrading, but cant really find much in the way of info or reviews on it.

Decisions decisions..

mikeyj28

I own a Kula Deluxe 2008 and i think it is a top bike. I am a big hardtail fan though wheras others will rave on about full suspension.
the best thing is to try and rent a full suss or borrow a mates and take it out for the day to see how you get on.

That will make a big difference as to whether you want the FSR XC or the Kula Deluxe.

The Kula Deluxe is a top bike and fopr a HT you can't go much wrong as it climbs well and is pretty quick.