Which bike?

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May 22, 2012, 01:28:22 AM

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[Ute]

Hi,
I am looking for a bit of advice really.  I am looking for an allrounder, something to get me to work (which is up an enourmous hill), and can cope with a fair amount of tarmac, and something that I can play around in the local woods/tracks and will withstand a little punishment.

I am torn between the 4.2 and the supernormal deluxe.  On the german website here it describes the 4.2 as a "Marathon-Tour-CC Race", and it isn't too much heavier than the supernormal deluxe, but I am not sure that the supernormal will perform well off the road.

Many thanks

[Yard]

Hi Ute,

Define "playing around in the local woods/tracks"?

With my limited experience, you get more out of a hardtail than a FS bike when playing around in the woods. However, if your playing around involves flying down rooty/rocky descents or leaving the ground any point then you may appreciate a bit of rear travel.

I'm sure others on here will have more experience of both bikes, but I had a similar converasation with another rider recently, and there was consensus that the FS might be the bike she WANTS, but the HT option is actually better for the kind of riding she does!

[AlexTaylor]

Funnily enough, before I read the reply, I was about to suggest a Hard Tail  too...

[Ute]

thanks for the replies.
I think I fall into the same category as your friend, the FS looks nice, but the reality is, the HT would be a better choice. 
As soon as money allows I will be ordering a bike from real cycles.  Current exchange rate makes it a lot cheaper than buying in Germany.

[bong69uk]

Yeah i reckon that the hardtail option should by far be the best for you. It would defo make that commute to work less of a drag and you never know you might be able to enjoy a bit of street riding on your way(some pavement gaps,small wall drops etc)
You would be surpised as to how much fun you can have on a hardtail when "messing around in the woods". Im a long time full sus rider,but more recently i've been riding a freeride specced hardtail and i can tell you it hasnt held me back one bit,its made me a far smoother rider and the only draw back is it works the legs a bit more on those rocky sections,but it is more than capable and great fun!