Beginner trying to make sense of all info

ivanyv

Hi,

A bit of history first

A few years ago, some pals and I went on a 2 day bike trip. I took my cheapo bike and off we went at noon. We arrived at our first checkpoint at about 1 AM the next day... with my ass on fire. I have to mention none of us had any real experience mountain biking or even on the road (lots of mishaps).

Next day was about 8 hours more, and good thing my ass developed some kind of protective shell or something as I didn't feel a thing, hehe

Even with the pains, it was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life, and I want to do it again.

Only this time I want a better bike. So I've been reading through this site and these forums, but it's a lot of information to digest, so if I give you a couple guidelines, could you point me to the information I need to read or some suggestions to make my selection?

So, the trips I like include both the smooth road and mountain, but the mountain on the light side, no crazy drops or anything like that

So I think I need performance on smooth roads, be able to take to the hills, and a comfortable ride for long hours.

I'm also partial to folding bikes, and I particularly like the Montague X70.

I'd really appreciate any input you might have.

Thanks!

ivanyv

Oh, forgot to mention, I like to pack for camping out, so any related gear that might make my life easier while hauling all that stuff would be cool too!

MountainMonster

I'd say your not really lookin for a MTB, but more of a Hybrid/ tourer. I'm not really clued up on them though, so can't offer too much advice, sorry.

The Rookie

Agreed, you don't want an MTB for what you say, you want either a flat barred hybrid, one which will take wider tyres for your small off road forays, or possible a crosser.

Full sized folders tend to be very compromised, you loose stiffness and add weight, even more so on full sized bikes.

Simon

Giraffoto

Specialized Tricross, Blackburn MTN rack for your luggage, Brooks saddle for your ischial area. Mile after comfortable mile on or off road. Also some Kool-stop brake blocks so your rims last, and the fork crown hanger for the front brake if it doesn't come with the bike.

supersonic

I'd go for a rugged MTB style 'hybrid' or a XC MTB hardtail. I'd avoid that fold up bike, is heavy, underspecced and grossly overpriced.

I'd look at something like this:

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stor ... 65499#tab1

Great spec, lightweight and will take more knobbly, larger tyres if you need them.

cooldad

Unless you are desperate for a folding bike that Montague X70 is seriously rubbish for the price. Cut a grand off and it might make sense.

ivanyv

Wow, so much great info! Thanks for saving me from making a mistake, I was almost in love with that folding bike!

I'm reading up on your suggestions, thanks again.