Specialized Status 1 vs. Kona Operator/Saracen Myst

JDRfive

I'm looking to buy an entry level downhill bike, as I've just started racing. So far I've been looking at the specialized status 1, because the spec looks good and it's nice and cheap (relatively). A friend of mine who races said it might be worth looking at the Saracen myst; even though it's more of an investment it's got a boxxer fork and better components, and will serve me better in the long run. Reading reviews it seems pretty good, but the kona operator has a better write up. It has almost identical geometry and componentry but supposedly a better controlled rear end using the van rc shock.

Ideally i want to spend as little as possible but I also want to get the most bang for my buck. And I'm totally lost. Any advice?

sanchez89

why not look at something like the YT Industries Tues bike?

oodboo

Another option?
http://www.canyon.com/_uk/mountainbikes ... tml?b=2579

JDRfive

They're both nice bikes, but problem is I can't sit on one before I buy one. My body height and preference for size is annoyingly pretty much exactly between medium and large frame size on most bikes, so it's normally a case of try before you buy. Unless anyone knows what size of a canyon a 6 foot male should get? I tried their perfect positioning system, and I am right on the line between medium and large...

rockmonkeysc

Status is overpriced. The Myst comes with pretty poor transmission. I think probably the best value DH race bike would be the Norco Aurum or Moorwood Izimu.
Personally I wouldn't buy one of the German bikes for downhill because you are likely to break bits on a DH bike (bearings, mech hangers) & I'm not sure you would get spares quick enough. I have also heard bad things about YT's customer service, I emailed them twice to enquire about the Tues DH & got no reply & others have said that they ordered bikes & deliveries are weeks later than promised.