What to buy

TP1006
TP1006 Posts: 7
edited May 2012 in MTB buying advice
Hi all, new to the forum, looking for MTB.
After reading some reviews am seriously considering Voodoo Hoodo. Am ard 6'3" 34" inside leg, and some things Ive read have said i should look for a 21" plus frame.
The VH is 20" frame only so am wondering if 1" makes such a difference (keep it clean !!)
Is this a good starter bike ? Also heard some horror stories re Halfords service !! Are there better starter bikes for the price (would like not to go over £500 to start with). Thanks for your help .

Comments

  • Greer_
    Greer_ Posts: 1,716
    I can't really comment on the size - you need to go and see if it fits you by sitting on it! It's a great starter bike, have a look in decathlon at the rockrider as well for that price. Some halfords are good, some are bad, mine personally has shown me superb service - but I've heard more than enough bad reports about others. Just quickly check all nuts and bolts are done up tight and you're fork is on the right way round! Oh and WTTF! :D
    Orbea Alma Team Carbon - Strava -Specialized Allez Sport
  • TP1006
    TP1006 Posts: 7
    Thanks very much, will be checking it out over the weekend. Not sure re Decathlon will google and see where nearest is.
  • mountaingoatimnot
    mountaingoatimnot Posts: 185
    The advantage of Halfords is there are plenty of stores to try out bikes for fit. Carrera range or the Voodoo Hoodoo are regular recommendations along with the Rockrider from Decathlon. The buying power of Halfords (and Decathlon) get you good spec at every price point. I had a 18" Carrera (6'1") and it was OK, although having switched to a 20" Specialized i do feel like i have more room. The only way to tell is to sit on a few frames of different sizes. One companies medium isn't always the same as another so check before you instantly dismiss a particular model.

    Halfords build quality can be a bit hit n miss, but if you order on a Monday and collect mid week you should avoid the part time weekend staff. The same could be said of your local bike shop, but Halfords is bound to get more bad press due to its greater number of stores.
  • estampida
    estampida Posts: 1,008
    I am the same sizing.....

    I tend to run a slightly smaller frame, and can tune the bike by stems and other components, the frame size will have a slightly different top tube lengths, but you want to maximise stand over of the bike, remember the forest is rougher than the floor in halfords.

    current bikes

    mountain cycle rumble (long top tube version) say 16.6" frame (very long seatpost)

    kona coiler (m) 17.5" - 18" or round about there

    1994 kona cindercone 18" - a little nearer the voodoo in styling

    just don't buy a farm gate, please
  • TP1006
    TP1006 Posts: 7
    Thanks for the replies, more to think about than just walking into halfords me thinks :?
    Looking across a lot of the newbie posts the VH and the Rockrider do seem to get a lot of recommendations.
  • TP1006
    TP1006 Posts: 7
    So have decided on the Voodoo Hoodoo after visiting local Halfords and being very well assisted. Sitting on the bike allayed any fears re my being too big. Collect later today, looking forward to it. Also the fact that Halfords have until Weds 30th reduced the price again to £450 is another factor :)

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