New Bike

[Thomas73]

Perhaps I am just getting cold feet, but I was looking for some feedback on a bike I'm about to purchase. I am looking at a 07 Trek 6500. The frame and geometry felt awesome on my little test ride compared to other bikes I tested. I am just not sure if I'm spending too much (@ $775) or if I'm not spending enough. My riding style consists of basic single track. I don't like leaving the ground, or speeding downhill. I rather enjoy taking in the sights as I cruise through the woods (I love Great Brook Farm). I ride probably around 5 times a month for 3-4 hours a whack when the weather is good. I don't really have a need for a dualie, I would rather spend under $1000 and get an great hardtail with good components than spend the same on a low-end dualie. Any thoughts on the subject? You should know that I am replacing a Decathlon steel beast with no name brand components...

[Jisch]

Trek is a fine company and make fine bikes. If it fits and feels good, then thats 90% of the battle right there.

On a hardtail the most important part is the fork, I would suggest looking at the next model up to see what you'll get with one up. Also you may want to look into 2006 leftovers, as I'm sure there are deals out there right now.

Oh yeah, and look over at MTBR for bike reviews here:
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/XC_Hardtail/product_125519.shtml

It looks like the common complaint is the fork. Its easily upgraded, but you may want to look into that when buying the bike - i.e. see what the Bike Shop will do for you. I see there's two versions of that bike, one with disc and one with Vee brakes. Get the discs if you can, but it sounds like they would make little difference in the type of riding you do.

John

[Thomas73]

I know what you mean about the fork, thats why I was looking at the 07 model, it has the slate as opposed to the axel as well as hayes hydro discs. After sleeping on it though (and realizing I have a little more money) I may just buy the leftover Cannondale Prophet 800 my LBS has for $1200...Just not sure if a dualie is wise for me.

[mdc]

Just make sure the bike fits well and that you are buying from a shop you are comfortable dealing with. A full suspension bike, with a good fork and discs from any of the major players will be great for your first "real" mountain bike. If your psyched with your bike it will just make you want to get out and ride that much more. Then as you break and wear things out you can buy some bling to replace it!

[bikerdom]

That's a great price. If it fits it's a no brainer. My Prophet weighs 27 lbs. for a large and rides fantastic. Buy it before you lose that price.

[SOcoach]

If you have any thoughts of purchasing a slightly used TREK 6500. I have a 6500 that ridden maybe three times. It is a 16.5 inch frame to which I have added new Avid BB5 disc brakes and Mavic X139rims/Deore hubs disc wheels and new tires - see photos Price is $425.00.

I'm down in Florida riding the Santos Trailhead and I'll be back on the 3rd. Drop me a PM if intrested.

[Quo Fan]

I ride hard tails, long travel bikes, short travel bikes, all kinds of bikes. You will not regret getting the Prophet. I rode one at Pedro's last year and I was impressed at how well the Lefty tracked. Just so you know, I ride almost exclusively Marzocchi forks.

Even on the relatively smooth trails at Great Brook Farm, a dualie is a smart choice. Less of a beating on your back, neck and arms. You'll be able to ride things you didn't think possible with a hard tail. I know, I''ve ridden the same trails with a dualie and a hardtail.