Suggestions on new bike

[Chris True]

I just started mountain biking last summer and I currently have a Giant Boulder Se. It's a good bike but I'm ready to upgrade.

What do you guys think about Kona as compared to Giant?

This is what I'm considering.

http://www.konaworld.com/bike.cfm?content=kahuna

How does that compare to a similar priced hardtail Giant 29er? I'm pretty new to the scene so it's kind of hard for me to compare components.

Thanks for any advice

[SweetSVT99]

Here is probably the comparable Giant you'll be looking at: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/...er/7377/44105/

The components are pretty much the same between the two bikes. They may not be the same brand name, but they are both pretty much the same level componentry. The single most important thing when looking at bikes, especially for beginners, is to find a bike that FITS YOU. I say it's especially important for beginners primarily because you are less likely to start changing out parts to make it fit your riding style better like some of the more seasoned guys will. I would recommend you hit up all the local bike shops and ride everything that is your size, making note of what you liked and disliked about each model. For now, forget about what brand has this, or the other guy has that. Most "out of the box" bicycles stay pretty competitive with each other, so that typically equates to similar componentry between them.

[Gunchie]

The closet one in the Giant line up is the XTC 29er 2: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/....2/7366/44092/

The components on both are pretty similar. The one component that sets them apart is the fork. The Giant has a Marzocchi 44 TST2 w/15QR Thru Axle. The 15mm Thru Axle makes the front more stiff at the hub which makes the bike react quicker. From what I've heard this is key on 29er bikes since the wheels extra size already sacrifices some stiffness. BUT, Marzocchi doesn't have the greatest reputation in the biking community and have been known to have issues (never had one myself though so no personal opinion). The Kona has a RockShox Tora TK 29 100mm. No Thru Axle, but RockShox Tora are quite durable and dependable. Both brands make great bikes. Tough decision if you ask me. I'd shop around at the local bike shops and see what prices you can get for each, and if they have one in stock take it for a short test ride. Good luck!

[Russhole]

I hope you haven't bought that bike yet. These guys are steering you in the wrong direction. This is what you need http://www.kmart.com/shc/s/p_10151_1...&blockType=G18

OK but seriously, Bike and Hike has a giant just like the one mentioned above... very nice.

[BD83]

Sweet, only 48 lbs

[Chris True]

That is one sweet bike! That way, I can afford to get this awesome road bike they have too!

http://www.kmart.com/shc/s/p_10151_1...&blockType=G16

I'm still looking...26 or 29, 26 or 29, 26 or 29? Kinda seems like the Chevy or Ford debate.

Thanks for the advice on the Giants and Konas.

[Chris True]

What do you guys think? I've been looking all over town...

http://www.konaworld.com/bike.cfm?content=cinder_cone

My understanding is that it's a decent fork, at least not bottom of the barrel. Are the hydraulic brakes

and shifters mid grade or low end? I've been told that low end hydraulics are no better than

mechanical or even worse.


Thanks again for any advice!

[jimithng23]

that's an all-around good entry-level bike.

my opinion on the brakes - Avid Juicy 3's are an entry-level hydraulic brake. if it were my bike, I would pull those off and replace them with the Avid BB7 mechanicals. entry-level hydraulics will require more maintenance while BB7s are "ol reliable." people love them because they just WORK.

the shifters are entry-level but you get what you pay for. components can always be upgraded so if you find a bike that has the majority of what you're looking for, go for it! ebay is a wonderful place...

at the end of the day the most important thing is that you are RIDING (which I need to do much, much more of!)

at this point, this bike is looking like a substantial upgrade for you coming from the Giant Boulder. I think you're doing great so far!