Well both are very nice bikes-but the Specialized definately has the upper hand in my opinion is far as componetry goes. But isnt there about a $700 difference in the bikes? In the GF line up the x-caliber is more of an equal to the stumpjumper.
Well both are very nice bikes-but the Specialized definately has the upper hand in my opinion is far as componetry goes. But isnt there about a $700 difference in the bikes? In the GF line up the x-caliber is more of an equal to the stumpjumper.
the "no-brainer" is to make sure you are comfortable on the bike you choose to spend your money on.
if you are looking across the 3 manf's - GF, Giant, Specialized - compare the bikes at equivalent MSRP's and component groups. then, test ride each and whichever "fits" and feels best to you is the one you should buy. all 3 of these manufacturers make great bikes, so either way you go you will have a very nice ride.
take online reviews for what they are worth....if you go to mtbr.com and read reviews on these three manufacturers, you are going to be hard pressed to find negative reviews - think about it: if you dropped $1000+ on a new bike, you would probably think that it was the best thing you've ever had, especially if this is your first MTB with that kind of price tag....that's my point about the online review community - take 'em for what they are worth, learn a few things, and test the bikes out on your own so you can form your own opinion.
....just my $.02
by the way, up until recently the closest Specialized dealer was Geoff's Bike and Ski in Iowa City. In fact, that's where I bought my first "nice" bike. Now we have a Specialized dealer locally at Healthy Habits in Bettendorf. Check em out for a test ride.
Trek all the way!!!!!!!!
That one right there......
Which one ? ? ? Awe crap I missed it
Anyway last post I swear before I pull the trigger . . .
My question comes now to frame size I'm 5'9" and 32" inseam . . . correct me if I'm wrong but conventional wisdom says I should have a 19" frame correct ? ?
Well I went for a ride on a 19" gary fisher and on a 17" gary fisher and I have to say I felt better on the paragon than I did on the Cobia . . . the cobia felt like i was reaching for the handle bars. So I'm pretty sure I know what you guys are gonna say but I just wanted a little more advice before I spend this kinda money . . .
Convential wisdom is different for 29 than 26... For little wheels, you're probably right about a 19" frame, but you may be on the bubble between 17" and 19" for big wheels. I'm 5'10", 32.5" inseam, and both of my 29ers are medium frames. If you felt better on the Paragon, by all means, buy the Paragon.
Rg.
Haters gonna hate.
Yea I believe the 19" would be too big- it would work but I agree thinking the 17.5 would work out way better for you. Im 5'10 and have a 17.5 inch Gary Fisher Rig 29er and absolutely love it! Paragon would be sweeeeeet! Go get it!! :)