Noob in need....help?

Benh78

Hello people.

So, I have not sat on a bike for many years and am planning on getting back in the saddle. I have done a bit of reading and comparison of bikes and components recently and have some kind of idea of what is out there and how much they cost....what I would like is some kind of input from people with a bit more experience and knowledge.

I have right now a couple of options.

1) http://www.bulls.de/modelle/cross-country/king-boa/king-boa-disc.html

I have had a quick test ride on this and it seems ok, if a little lively/nervous....maybe because I am bigger/stronger than when younger and the bike is lighter??....It did also feel physically small although it was the correct size for my height (a little over 6'2)

2) http://www.evanscycles.com/products/felt/nine-sport-2012-mountain-bike-ec032658#features

I have heard that 29ers can be better for the taller rider but I have not been able to test ride one in my size, this would be an internet purchase.

As a noob do I go for the Bulls which has seemingly better components or the 29er which could be a better fit for my size and upgrade in the future as and when I am good enough to deserve upgrades? (where I am located these two bikes cost the same...700Eur)

Any kind of advice is much appreciated in my hunt for the right ride.

Ben

Greer_

Spec wise, the King Boa is far better than the felt. It has a better fork, better drivetrain and slightly better brakes.

cooldad

If one feels a bit small, maybe it isn't the correct size for you.

Benh78

Thank you both!

In terms of standover and with feet on the pedals it felt ok for my leg length but as I was riding it just appeared to be quite small beneath me. Maybe it being a decent weight and me being able to throw it around a bit makes a difference as I am used to rubbish, heavy bikes?

If you had £700 to spend what kind of things might you be looking at?

nicklouse

Standover is a thing of the past, see the topic in general.

Lifting a bike frame in the air by 100mm or more means everything moves up.

I the bike feels small it most likely is.

Benh78

Hey Nicklouse,

being in Germany do you have any experience of or know anybody that has used a Bulls or Haibike?

I see a lot of them around and they can be ok specs-wise but I have not seen much in the way of reviews from real riders.

Benh78

Just a quick update on the bike search to say that I made a purchase!!

It is an older model of the Haibike Edition RC (although brand new and boxed) and I got a GOOD deal on it. It is fitted with:
Rock Shox Tora SL 100mm
Shimano SLX transmission
Black Jack rims
Schwalbe Rocket Ron tyres

The weak point could be the brakes - Magura H33 hydraulic rim brakes - but I saved enough on the whole package to upgrade to some decent discs when I feel it necessary.

Weighing in at a touch under 12kg.

I am pleased

Greer_

Are there disc mounts on the frame, fork and wheels? Other than that it sounds like a great spec!

Benh78

Yep, all ready for when I feel the need to upgrade!

The Rookie

Buy some good second hand disc brakes and you can probably sell the 'as new' rim brakes for as much if not more money....