Mountain bike

[Llamatron]

I've got about �400 to spend on a mountain bike.

I now live near the shore of the Humber and plan on making use of it and the countryside nearby. But I also plan on cycling to work which is now just 5 miles away, weather and laziness permitting.

Halfords have a Kona Fire Mountain which seems perfect. It's the 06 model so I was going to wait till they had the 07 model in, which should be any week now.

Does anyone have any comments on the Kona or can recommend any particular makes/models to go for?

[whiffey]

Hi Llamatron,

I have 2 Konas (Fire Mountain and Kula Deluxe). Both are excellent bikes, Kona is a quality make. Never be tempted to buy a �200 bike from a downmarket shop, you'll end up with a heavy lump and disappointing cycling. As you have �400 why not look out a specialist cycle shop and see what's available from other leading makers such as Specialized, Cannondale, Trek, Giant, Marin, etc.

Inevitably a year-old bike will be cheaper than the very latest model, I'd go for last year's, save up to �150.

I did a 25 mile trip on the F-M yesterday, very comfortable. I cycle to work (4 miles) and drive only with reluctance. Presumably it is pretty flat where you are ? I am on the edge of the North Downs and it is up and down everywhere.

Here is a good site to browse around and see the sort of thing you can get for your budget.

http://www.evanscycles.com/

Ask for a test ride, different frames have different feels.

Enjoy your cycling !

[Llamatron]

I've found a local shop that sells Trek and Giant.
I may pay them a visit, although I'm still hoping Halfords get the new Fire Mountain in soon.


Thanks for the response, I was beginning to think my question would go unanswered.

[whiffey]

Llamatron, I hope you see this, did you get the Fire Mountain ?

I was in Halfords on Saturday and looked over the bikes with this question in mind. If I had �400+ to spend on a bike I would go to a more specialist shop - unless you can get the FM at Halfords.

A smaller shop is also likely to throw in a freebie or two (e.g. a good D-lock) if you spend �400-500 with them.