Comfort / Hybrid Choices

[Cigs]

Hi all,

I posted this in the USA bit of these forums, but it looks like it might
be worth while posting here also, so here goes :)

I am looking at getting a new bike very soon, narrowed it down to a
choice of 3, wanted some opinions if you don't mind! I am not very
techincal at all, and I dont know if some parts are good and some are
bad. Right now I ride a MTB thats 12 years old!

Choice 1: Mongoose - Crossway 850
http://www.mongoose.com/sa/uploads/images/bikes/49.14.INTLCrossway-
850.jpg Frame Material 7005 alloy trekking frame Fork
Material Rockshox GPS Merto Mag Headset 1 1/8" threaded, chrome
Shifters Alloy Adjustable stem Bars Steel high rise 30mm men/50mm
women Rear Brake Shimano M-420 V-Brakes Front Brake Shimano M-420
V-Brakes Brake Levers Shimano ST-510 Deore Front Derailleur Shimano
Deore Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore Shifters Shimano ST-510 Deore
Rapidfire+ Freewheel Shimano CS-HG50 9sp. cassette 11-32t Crankset
Suntour CR-410 HPC 48/38/28 wchainguard Chain KMC Z-9000 Pedals
Alloy body platform w/kraton rubber inserts Tires Hutchinson
Acrobat comfort 700 x 35 Rims Alex Adventurer double wall black
w/CNC sidewalls Hubs Shimano Deore 9 speed Seat Post Alloy
suspension Saddle Selle Royal Look In Gel

Choice 2: 2003 Giant PERIGEE
http://www.biziworks.com.au/bikenow/downloads/2003_images/perigee.-
jpg[/IMG] Frame-FluidFormed 6061 ALUXX 700C Aluminium Fork-Cro-Mo 1
1/8’ Headset-Ahead 1 1/8’ Semi Sealed
J.Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra
K. Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra 9 Speed Crankset-Shimano Tiagra 30x42x52
Shifters-Shimano SL-R440 27 Speed Cassette-SRAM 12-26T 9 Speed
Chain-Shimano Tiagra
L.Bracket-Sealed Cartridge Hubs-Shimano Tiagra 32H Rims-Mavic MA-3 Alloy
700C 32H w/Eyelet Tyres-Michelin Transworld City 700 x 35
Brakes-Tektro TB07AL Alloy V-Brakes
M.Levers-Tektro TK394A Pedals-Shimano M505 SPD Clipless Stem-Titec Fast
Al 10 degree
N.Bar-Titec Enduro XC 6061 D/Butted Seat-Post-Post Modern Cushy Alloy
Suspension 27.2 Saddle- Velo VL-2036 Ozone Grips- Velo Kraton

Choice 3: Shogun Metro-GS
[NAA]http://www.shogunbicycles.com.au/images/metrogsjade.jpg[/IMG]
FRAME: Cr-Mo Main Tubing. FORK: Hi-Ten Steerer.& Cr-Mo Blades
COLOURS: Jade HANDLEBAR: MTB-153, Steel HANDLEBAR GRIPS: VLG-185D2
STEM: Alloy Adjustable HEAD PARTS: CS-568, 1-1/8" BB SET: Cartridge
FRONT DERAIL: Shimano Alivio REAR DERAIL: Shimano Alivio SHIFTERS:
Shimano Alivio 24 Speed FREEWHEEL: Shimano Cassette CHAINWHEEL:
Shimano Alivio CHAIN: KMC-Z51 PEDAL: Alloy Cage PP Body TYRES: 700
x 38C Black RIM: Araya Alloy, 700C FRONT HUB: Alloy 36H with Rubber
Caps with Q/R REAR HUB: Alloy Cassette, 36H with Rubber Caps with
Q/R SPOKES: 14G Stainless Steel SADDLE: Velo VL-289-D2 Double
Density SEAT POST: Alloy with Suspension SEAT PIN: Alloy Clamp, Q/R
Seat Pin BRAKES: Tektro Alloy V-Brake BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Alivio


Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
a fair bit of gravel tracks.

I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike

Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
consider that would be great!

Scott (Cigs)



--[i]
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[hippy]

"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out,
and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.

Personally I wouldn't touch a comfort bike or hybrid with
a 670mm downhill bar! so my advice would be to have a
look at some mtb's in your price range.
Why does it need to be a comfort bike anyway?
If you are riding down some tracks with ob-stack-les
as opposed to the nice, sanitised council bike paths then
you are probably better off with an mtb. Hybrids are too
high and their wheels are too skinny (don't get me wrong,
I ride plenty of road bikes too).
MTB's are a very popular market segment too so perhaps
you would get a better deal on one than a hybrid?
Wait and see if someone with a bit more knowledge has
a suggestion though.

Check out something like the $700 Giant Yukon that Tim
mentioned in the "New bike?" thread.

hth
hippy

[hippy]

"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out,
and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.

Personally I wouldn't touch a comfort bike or hybrid with
a 670mm downhill bar! so my advice would be to have a
look at some mtb's in your price range.
Why does it need to be a comfort bike anyway?
If you are riding down some tracks with ob-stack-les
as opposed to the nice, sanitised council bike paths then
you are probably better off with an mtb. Hybrids are too
high and their wheels are too skinny (don't get me wrong,
I ride plenty of road bikes too).
MTB's are a very popular market segment too so perhaps
you would get a better deal on one than a hybrid?
Wait and see if someone with a bit more knowledge has
a suggestion though.

Check out something like the $700 Giant Yukon that Tim
mentioned in the "New bike?" thread.

hth
hippy

[Carl Milne]

Scott,
I and most of my riding friends have hybrids and we all really enjoy them.
We do touring type rides and so are in the saddle for long periods. We also
use them for the type of riding you describe and they really are a good all
purpose bike. The comment about hybrids only being suitable for short rides
doesn't make any sense - the idea is that because of the upright position
you can ride for longer periods and be more comfortable. I also like to see
what I am riding past and speed is not critical to me. I can ride fully
loaded around 20-25 km/hr and that is fast enough for my needs.
I don't have a Giant, but I think they are a good bike and I would
recommend them especially in that price range. I don't know the 'Perigee'
but several of my friends, including my wife have the Giant 'Innova' which
is in your price range and uses mountain bike components, whereas the
'Perigee' uses road bike components as I understand it.
Having said that, I think you should buy the bike that you are most
comfortable on, even if that means going back to a mountian bike.
Carl
"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Hi all,
>
> I posted this in the USA bit of these forums, but it looks like it might
> be worth while posting here also, so here goes :)
>
> I am looking at getting a new bike very soon, narrowed it down to a
> choice of 3, wanted some opinions if you don't mind! I am not very
> techincal at all, and I dont know if some parts are good and some are
> bad. Right now I ride a MTB thats 12 years old!
>
> Choice 1: Mongoose - Crossway 850
> http://www.mongoose.com/sa/uploads/images/bikes/49.14.INTLCrossway-
> 850.jpg Frame Material 7005 alloy trekking frame Fork
> Material Rockshox GPS Merto Mag Headset 1 1/8" threaded, chrome
> Shifters Alloy Adjustable stem Bars Steel high rise 30mm men/50mm
> women Rear Brake Shimano M-420 V-Brakes Front Brake Shimano M-420
> V-Brakes Brake Levers Shimano ST-510 Deore Front Derailleur Shimano
> Deore Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore Shifters Shimano ST-510 Deore
> Rapidfire+ Freewheel Shimano CS-HG50 9sp. cassette 11-32t Crankset
> Suntour CR-410 HPC 48/38/28 wchainguard Chain KMC Z-9000 Pedals
> Alloy body platform w/kraton rubber inserts Tires Hutchinson
> Acrobat comfort 700 x 35 Rims Alex Adventurer double wall black
> w/CNC sidewalls Hubs Shimano Deore 9 speed Seat Post Alloy
> suspension Saddle Selle Royal Look In Gel
>
> Choice 2: 2003 Giant PERIGEE
> http://www.biziworks.com.au/bikenow/downloads/2003_images/perigee.-
> jpg[/IMG] Frame-FluidFormed 6061 ALUXX 700C Aluminium Fork-Cro-Mo 1
> 1/8' Headset-Ahead 1 1/8' Semi Sealed
> J.Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra
> K. Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra 9 Speed Crankset-Shimano Tiagra 30x42x52
> Shifters-Shimano SL-R440 27 Speed Cassette-SRAM 12-26T 9 Speed
> Chain-Shimano Tiagra
> L.Bracket-Sealed Cartridge Hubs-Shimano Tiagra 32H Rims-Mavic MA-3 Alloy
> 700C 32H w/Eyelet Tyres-Michelin Transworld City 700 x 35
> Brakes-Tektro TB07AL Alloy V-Brakes
> M.Levers-Tektro TK394A Pedals-Shimano M505 SPD Clipless Stem-Titec Fast
> Al 10 degree
> N.Bar-Titec Enduro XC 6061 D/Butted Seat-Post-Post Modern Cushy Alloy
> Suspension 27.2 Saddle- Velo VL-2036 Ozone Grips- Velo Kraton
>
> Choice 3: Shogun Metro-GS
> [NAA]http://www.shogunbicycles.com.au/images/metrogsjade.jpg[/IMG]
> FRAME: Cr-Mo Main Tubing. FORK: Hi-Ten Steerer.& Cr-Mo Blades
> COLOURS: Jade HANDLEBAR: MTB-153, Steel HANDLEBAR GRIPS: VLG-185D2
> STEM: Alloy Adjustable HEAD PARTS: CS-568, 1-1/8" BB SET: Cartridge
> FRONT DERAIL: Shimano Alivio REAR DERAIL: Shimano Alivio SHIFTERS:
> Shimano Alivio 24 Speed FREEWHEEL: Shimano Cassette CHAINWHEEL:
> Shimano Alivio CHAIN: KMC-Z51 PEDAL: Alloy Cage PP Body TYRES: 700
> x 38C Black RIM: Araya Alloy, 700C FRONT HUB: Alloy 36H with Rubber
> Caps with Q/R REAR HUB: Alloy Cassette, 36H with Rubber Caps with
> Q/R SPOKES: 14G Stainless Steel SADDLE: Velo VL-289-D2 Double
> Density SEAT POST: Alloy with Suspension SEAT PIN: Alloy Clamp, Q/R
> Seat Pin BRAKES: Tektro Alloy V-Brake BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Alivio
>
>
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.
>
> I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike
>
> Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
> and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
> consider that would be great!
>
> Scott (Cigs)
>
>
>
> --[i]
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Carl Milne]

Scott,
I and most of my riding friends have hybrids and we all really enjoy them.
We do touring type rides and so are in the saddle for long periods. We also
use them for the type of riding you describe and they really are a good all
purpose bike. The comment about hybrids only being suitable for short rides
doesn't make any sense - the idea is that because of the upright position
you can ride for longer periods and be more comfortable. I also like to see
what I am riding past and speed is not critical to me. I can ride fully
loaded around 20-25 km/hr and that is fast enough for my needs.
I don't have a Giant, but I think they are a good bike and I would
recommend them especially in that price range. I don't know the 'Perigee'
but several of my friends, including my wife have the Giant 'Innova' which
is in your price range and uses mountain bike components, whereas the
'Perigee' uses road bike components as I understand it.
Having said that, I think you should buy the bike that you are most
comfortable on, even if that means going back to a mountian bike.
Carl
"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Hi all,
>
> I posted this in the USA bit of these forums, but it looks like it might
> be worth while posting here also, so here goes :)
>
> I am looking at getting a new bike very soon, narrowed it down to a
> choice of 3, wanted some opinions if you don't mind! I am not very
> techincal at all, and I dont know if some parts are good and some are
> bad. Right now I ride a MTB thats 12 years old!
>
> Choice 1: Mongoose - Crossway 850
> http://www.mongoose.com/sa/uploads/images/bikes/49.14.INTLCrossway-
> 850.jpg Frame Material 7005 alloy trekking frame Fork
> Material Rockshox GPS Merto Mag Headset 1 1/8" threaded, chrome
> Shifters Alloy Adjustable stem Bars Steel high rise 30mm men/50mm
> women Rear Brake Shimano M-420 V-Brakes Front Brake Shimano M-420
> V-Brakes Brake Levers Shimano ST-510 Deore Front Derailleur Shimano
> Deore Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore Shifters Shimano ST-510 Deore
> Rapidfire+ Freewheel Shimano CS-HG50 9sp. cassette 11-32t Crankset
> Suntour CR-410 HPC 48/38/28 wchainguard Chain KMC Z-9000 Pedals
> Alloy body platform w/kraton rubber inserts Tires Hutchinson
> Acrobat comfort 700 x 35 Rims Alex Adventurer double wall black
> w/CNC sidewalls Hubs Shimano Deore 9 speed Seat Post Alloy
> suspension Saddle Selle Royal Look In Gel
>
> Choice 2: 2003 Giant PERIGEE
> http://www.biziworks.com.au/bikenow/downloads/2003_images/perigee.-
> jpg[/IMG] Frame-FluidFormed 6061 ALUXX 700C Aluminium Fork-Cro-Mo 1
> 1/8' Headset-Ahead 1 1/8' Semi Sealed
> J.Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra
> K. Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra 9 Speed Crankset-Shimano Tiagra 30x42x52
> Shifters-Shimano SL-R440 27 Speed Cassette-SRAM 12-26T 9 Speed
> Chain-Shimano Tiagra
> L.Bracket-Sealed Cartridge Hubs-Shimano Tiagra 32H Rims-Mavic MA-3 Alloy
> 700C 32H w/Eyelet Tyres-Michelin Transworld City 700 x 35
> Brakes-Tektro TB07AL Alloy V-Brakes
> M.Levers-Tektro TK394A Pedals-Shimano M505 SPD Clipless Stem-Titec Fast
> Al 10 degree
> N.Bar-Titec Enduro XC 6061 D/Butted Seat-Post-Post Modern Cushy Alloy
> Suspension 27.2 Saddle- Velo VL-2036 Ozone Grips- Velo Kraton
>
> Choice 3: Shogun Metro-GS
> [NAA]http://www.shogunbicycles.com.au/images/metrogsjade.jpg[/IMG]
> FRAME: Cr-Mo Main Tubing. FORK: Hi-Ten Steerer.& Cr-Mo Blades
> COLOURS: Jade HANDLEBAR: MTB-153, Steel HANDLEBAR GRIPS: VLG-185D2
> STEM: Alloy Adjustable HEAD PARTS: CS-568, 1-1/8" BB SET: Cartridge
> FRONT DERAIL: Shimano Alivio REAR DERAIL: Shimano Alivio SHIFTERS:
> Shimano Alivio 24 Speed FREEWHEEL: Shimano Cassette CHAINWHEEL:
> Shimano Alivio CHAIN: KMC-Z51 PEDAL: Alloy Cage PP Body TYRES: 700
> x 38C Black RIM: Araya Alloy, 700C FRONT HUB: Alloy 36H with Rubber
> Caps with Q/R REAR HUB: Alloy Cassette, 36H with Rubber Caps with
> Q/R SPOKES: 14G Stainless Steel SADDLE: Velo VL-289-D2 Double
> Density SEAT POST: Alloy with Suspension SEAT PIN: Alloy Clamp, Q/R
> Seat Pin BRAKES: Tektro Alloy V-Brake BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Alivio
>
>
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.
>
> I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike
>
> Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
> and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
> consider that would be great!
>
> Scott (Cigs)
>
>
>
> --[i]
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com

[amirm]

Cigs wrote:
> Hi all,
> I posted this in the USA bit of these forums, but it looks like it might
> be worth while posting here also, so here goes :)
> I am looking at getting a new bike very soon, narrowed it down to a
> choice of 3, wanted some opinions if you don't mind! I am not very
> techincal at all, and I dont know if some parts are good and some are
> bad. Right now I ride a MTB thats 12 years old!
> Choice 1: Mongoose - Crossway 850
> http://www.mongoose.com/sa/uploads/images/bikes/49.14.INTLCrossway-
> 850.jpg Frame Material 7005 alloy trekking frame Fork
> Material Rockshox GPS Merto Mag Headset 1 1/8" threaded, chrome
> Shifters Alloy Adjustable stem Bars Steel high rise 30mm men/50mm
> women Rear Brake Shimano M-420 V-Brakes Front Brake Shimano M-420
> V-Brakes Brake Levers Shimano ST-510 Deore Front Derailleur Shimano
> Deore Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore Shifters Shimano ST-510 Deore
> Rapidfire+ Freewheel Shimano CS-HG50 9sp. cassette 11-32t Crankset
> Suntour CR-410 HPC 48/38/28 wchainguard Chain KMC Z-9000 Pedals
> Alloy body platform w/kraton rubber inserts Tires Hutchinson
> Acrobat comfort 700 x 35 Rims Alex Adventurer double wall black
> w/CNC sidewalls Hubs Shimano Deore 9 speed Seat Post Alloy
> suspension Saddle Selle Royal Look In Gel
> Choice 2: 2003 Giant PERIGEE
> [IMH]http://www.biziworks.com.au/bikenow/downloads/2003_images/perigee.-
> jpg[/IMG] Frame-FluidFormed 6061 ALUXX 700C Aluminium Fork-Cro-Mo 1
> 1/8’ Headset-Ahead 1 1/8’ Semi Sealed
> J.Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra
> K. Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra 9 Speed Crankset-Shimano Tiagra 30x42x52
> Shifters-Shimano SL-R440 27 Speed Cassette-SRAM 12-26T 9 Speed
> Chain-Shimano Tiagra
> L.Bracket-Sealed Cartridge Hubs-Shimano Tiagra 32H Rims-Mavic MA-3 Alloy
> 700C 32H w/Eyelet Tyres-Michelin Transworld City 700 x 35
> Brakes-Tektro TB07AL Alloy V-Brakes
> M.Levers-Tektro TK394A Pedals-Shimano M505 SPD Clipless Stem-Titec Fast
> Al 10 degree
> N.Bar-Titec Enduro XC 6061 D/Butted Seat-Post-Post Modern Cushy Alloy
> Suspension 27.2 Saddle- Velo VL-2036 Ozone Grips- Velo Kraton
> Choice 3: Shogun Metro-GS
> [NAA]http://www.shogunbicycles.com.au/images/metrogsjade.jpg[/IMG]
> FRAME: Cr-Mo Main Tubing. FORK: Hi-Ten Steerer.& Cr-Mo Blades
> COLOURS: Jade HANDLEBAR: MTB-153, Steel HANDLEBAR GRIPS: VLG-185D2
> STEM: Alloy Adjustable HEAD PARTS: CS-568, 1-1/8" BB SET: Cartridge
> FRONT DERAIL: Shimano Alivio REAR DERAIL: Shimano Alivio SHIFTERS:
> Shimano Alivio 24 Speed FREEWHEEL: Shimano Cassette CHAINWHEEL:
> Shimano Alivio CHAIN: KMC-Z51 PEDAL: Alloy Cage PP Body TYRES: 700
> x 38C Black RIM: Araya Alloy, 700C FRONT HUB: Alloy 36H with Rubber
> Caps with Q/R REAR HUB: Alloy Cassette, 36H with Rubber Caps with
> Q/R SPOKES: 14G Stainless Steel SADDLE: Velo VL-289-D2 Double
> Density SEAT POST: Alloy with Suspension SEAT PIN: Alloy Clamp, Q/R
> Seat Pin BRAKES: Tektro Alloy V-Brake BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Alivio
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.
> I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike
> Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
> and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
> consider that would be great!
> Scott (Cigs)

1. I've never used any of these three bikes, so sadly, I cannot give a
direct comment. However, in short terms and based on the component
list, I would rate these bikes in the following order if I was to
purchase one for myself: 1. Giant, 2. Mongoose and 3. Shogun. Giant
seems to have a better grade of components. Mongoose misses out for
not having unthreaded (integrated) headset (you'd appreciate it once
you try it). The Shogun has Cro-Mo frame which means nicer ride but
generally heavier weight. Besides, it has mostly Alivio components
which is inferior to Deore. Tiagra is a better grade than Deore and
belongs to the road bike family. Giant has better rims (Mavic), and
I wouldn't recommend Araya rims that come on Shogun. I presume that
Giant would be the most expensive bike out of the three.

2. I have ridden an Avanti Pioneer for three years now. It was my main
commuting bike till recently. Now it's been kind of retired, and I
use it for my rainy days. I have been 100% happy with this bike in
terms of reliability and performance. I had to upgrade only three
things: needed to rebuild a new rear wheel using a Mavic rim and DT
spokes since the stock wheel was not sturdy enough for my weight,
needed to put on my own saddle (saddle choice is personal and a
very important factor in ride quality), and finally I put on
narrower tyres (700X28) to reduce drag and rolling resistance.
Recently, I had to overhaul the bike after 6500 km, and it only
needed a new cassette, a new chain and new rear brake shoes. It
cost me $105 to replace these parts. Amazingly, the BB and
chainrings are still in good order. I have upgraded other parts on
this bike, but not because they were not good. I did it to increase
the performance.

Now that I use a road bike for commuting, I appreciate how heavy and
sluggish a hybrid can be. On the other hand, the comfort that it
offers over long rides is far superior to the road bike. I'd suggest
that you took a look at the Avanti range. I happily recommend this
brand. They also have a new line of bikes (Avanti Blade) which is
between road and hybrid. The Avanti Blade Comp is the top of this
range and costs about $1350.






--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[amirm]

Cigs wrote:
> Hi all,
> I posted this in the USA bit of these forums, but it looks like it might
> be worth while posting here also, so here goes :)
> I am looking at getting a new bike very soon, narrowed it down to a
> choice of 3, wanted some opinions if you don't mind! I am not very
> techincal at all, and I dont know if some parts are good and some are
> bad. Right now I ride a MTB thats 12 years old!
> Choice 1: Mongoose - Crossway 850
> http://www.mongoose.com/sa/uploads/images/bikes/49.14.INTLCrossway-
> 850.jpg Frame Material 7005 alloy trekking frame Fork
> Material Rockshox GPS Merto Mag Headset 1 1/8" threaded, chrome
> Shifters Alloy Adjustable stem Bars Steel high rise 30mm men/50mm
> women Rear Brake Shimano M-420 V-Brakes Front Brake Shimano M-420
> V-Brakes Brake Levers Shimano ST-510 Deore Front Derailleur Shimano
> Deore Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore Shifters Shimano ST-510 Deore
> Rapidfire+ Freewheel Shimano CS-HG50 9sp. cassette 11-32t Crankset
> Suntour CR-410 HPC 48/38/28 wchainguard Chain KMC Z-9000 Pedals
> Alloy body platform w/kraton rubber inserts Tires Hutchinson
> Acrobat comfort 700 x 35 Rims Alex Adventurer double wall black
> w/CNC sidewalls Hubs Shimano Deore 9 speed Seat Post Alloy
> suspension Saddle Selle Royal Look In Gel
> Choice 2: 2003 Giant PERIGEE
> [IMH]http://www.biziworks.com.au/bikenow/downloads/2003_images/perigee.-
> jpg[/IMG] Frame-FluidFormed 6061 ALUXX 700C Aluminium Fork-Cro-Mo 1
> 1/8’ Headset-Ahead 1 1/8’ Semi Sealed
> J.Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra
> K. Derailleur-Shimano Tiagra 9 Speed Crankset-Shimano Tiagra 30x42x52
> Shifters-Shimano SL-R440 27 Speed Cassette-SRAM 12-26T 9 Speed
> Chain-Shimano Tiagra
> L.Bracket-Sealed Cartridge Hubs-Shimano Tiagra 32H Rims-Mavic MA-3 Alloy
> 700C 32H w/Eyelet Tyres-Michelin Transworld City 700 x 35
> Brakes-Tektro TB07AL Alloy V-Brakes
> M.Levers-Tektro TK394A Pedals-Shimano M505 SPD Clipless Stem-Titec Fast
> Al 10 degree
> N.Bar-Titec Enduro XC 6061 D/Butted Seat-Post-Post Modern Cushy Alloy
> Suspension 27.2 Saddle- Velo VL-2036 Ozone Grips- Velo Kraton
> Choice 3: Shogun Metro-GS
> [NAA]http://www.shogunbicycles.com.au/images/metrogsjade.jpg[/IMG]
> FRAME: Cr-Mo Main Tubing. FORK: Hi-Ten Steerer.& Cr-Mo Blades
> COLOURS: Jade HANDLEBAR: MTB-153, Steel HANDLEBAR GRIPS: VLG-185D2
> STEM: Alloy Adjustable HEAD PARTS: CS-568, 1-1/8" BB SET: Cartridge
> FRONT DERAIL: Shimano Alivio REAR DERAIL: Shimano Alivio SHIFTERS:
> Shimano Alivio 24 Speed FREEWHEEL: Shimano Cassette CHAINWHEEL:
> Shimano Alivio CHAIN: KMC-Z51 PEDAL: Alloy Cage PP Body TYRES: 700
> x 38C Black RIM: Araya Alloy, 700C FRONT HUB: Alloy 36H with Rubber
> Caps with Q/R REAR HUB: Alloy Cassette, 36H with Rubber Caps with
> Q/R SPOKES: 14G Stainless Steel SADDLE: Velo VL-289-D2 Double
> Density SEAT POST: Alloy with Suspension SEAT PIN: Alloy Clamp, Q/R
> Seat Pin BRAKES: Tektro Alloy V-Brake BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Alivio
> Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
> 100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
> little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
> a fair bit of gravel tracks.
> I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike
> Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
> and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
> consider that would be great!
> Scott (Cigs)

1. I've never used any of these three bikes, so sadly, I cannot give a
direct comment. However, in short terms and based on the component
list, I would rate these bikes in the following order if I was to
purchase one for myself: 1. Giant, 2. Mongoose and 3. Shogun. Giant
seems to have a better grade of components. Mongoose misses out for
not having unthreaded (integrated) headset (you'd appreciate it once
you try it). The Shogun has Cro-Mo frame which means nicer ride but
generally heavier weight. Besides, it has mostly Alivio components
which is inferior to Deore. Tiagra is a better grade than Deore and
belongs to the road bike family. Giant has better rims (Mavic), and
I wouldn't recommend Araya rims that come on Shogun. I presume that
Giant would be the most expensive bike out of the three.

2. I have ridden an Avanti Pioneer for three years now. It was my main
commuting bike till recently. Now it's been kind of retired, and I
use it for my rainy days. I have been 100% happy with this bike in
terms of reliability and performance. I had to upgrade only three
things: needed to rebuild a new rear wheel using a Mavic rim and DT
spokes since the stock wheel was not sturdy enough for my weight,
needed to put on my own saddle (saddle choice is personal and a
very important factor in ride quality), and finally I put on
narrower tyres (700X28) to reduce drag and rolling resistance.
Recently, I had to overhaul the bike after 6500 km, and it only
needed a new cassette, a new chain and new rear brake shoes. It
cost me $105 to replace these parts. Amazingly, the BB and
chainrings are still in good order. I have upgraded other parts on
this bike, but not because they were not good. I did it to increase
the performance.

Now that I use a road bike for commuting, I appreciate how heavy and
sluggish a hybrid can be. On the other hand, the comfort that it
offers over long rides is far superior to the road bike. I'd suggest
that you took a look at the Avanti range. I happily recommend this
brand. They also have a new line of bikes (Avanti Blade) which is
between road and hybrid. The Avanti Blade Comp is the top of this
range and costs about $1350.






--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
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[amirm]

One more thing. I am basically as heavy as you. So keep an eye to the
quality of the wheels.

If your off-road rides are mostly on flat terrain and do not demand high
grip, a hybrid tyre even as narrow as 28mm will be enough. Otherwise,
this can be a problem.


Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
a fair bit of gravel tracks.

I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike

Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
consider that would be great!

Scott (Cigs)



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Cigs]

Thanks for the replies people :)

It looks like the Perigee will be a little to much money, and its got a
waiting list so the bike shop in Doncaster says.

Seeing as I am looking to get one tommorow, I will toss up between the
Mongoose and the Shogun.

With the shogun, I am not sure if I posted the correct model I saw at
a shop last week. I will have to double check that and make sure that
the bits and peices on it are up to scratch with Deore gear rather
than Alivio.

My Dad has a Trailbreaker 3 Shogun and he loves it, but I like the look
of the Mongoose, and if its got better equipment on it, then that may be
the way to go.

Thanks once again!



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[amirm]

One more thing. I am basically as heavy as you. So keep an eye to the
quality of the wheels.

If your off-road rides are mostly on flat terrain and do not demand high
grip, a hybrid tyre even as narrow as 28mm will be enough. Otherwise,
this can be a problem.


Ok, Now I am 6 foot tall and weigh around 95 Kilos. I ride around 50 -
100k's a week, mostly on road or track, but every 2nd weekend I go a
little off road down small dirt tracks with tree roots sticking out, and
a fair bit of gravel tracks.

I am happy to spend around AUD $1,000 - $1,300 on a new bike

Any help on the Pro's and Con's of these 3 bikes would be most welcome,
and if you know any other bikes that match up to these 3 that I should
consider that would be great!

Scott (Cigs)



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Cigs]

Thanks for the replies people :)

It looks like the Perigee will be a little to much money, and its got a
waiting list so the bike shop in Doncaster says.

Seeing as I am looking to get one tommorow, I will toss up between the
Mongoose and the Shogun.

With the shogun, I am not sure if I posted the correct model I saw at
a shop last week. I will have to double check that and make sure that
the bits and peices on it are up to scratch with Deore gear rather
than Alivio.

My Dad has a Trailbreaker 3 Shogun and he loves it, but I like the look
of the Mongoose, and if its got better equipment on it, then that may be
the way to go.

Thanks once again!



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
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[Claude]

Cigs - check out Melbourne Bicycled Centre as they do a good price. I
would've bought my LX from them but at the time (November last year) they
didn't have the larger size. I used their price to bargain my LBS down
(actually looking now at my Quicken records I see that I only paid $1149).

"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Claude - You will be happy to know I am going to buy the exact same bike
> tommorow morning :)
>
> Shogun Metro LX :)
>
> Thanks everyone for the advice!
>
>
>
> --
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Claude]

Cigs - check out Melbourne Bicycled Centre as they do a good price. I
would've bought my LX from them but at the time (November last year) they
didn't have the larger size. I used their price to bargain my LBS down
(actually looking now at my Quicken records I see that I only paid $1149).

"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Claude - You will be happy to know I am going to buy the exact same bike
> tommorow morning :)
>
> Shogun Metro LX :)
>
> Thanks everyone for the advice!
>
>
>
> --
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Cigs]

Claude, I contacted them, they have one in the large size just waiting
for me.... $999. Save $400. So that sounds decent to me :)

Frame:Light Alloy Frame. Fork: Manitou LUXE COMP 50mm travel
Brakes:Shimano Deore LX Brakes with LX levers. Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
LX front & Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur; 27 speed Shimano Deore LX
shifters, Shimano cranks. Wheels:Sun Rhyno Lite Alloy rims & Alloy hubs
with quick release. Freewheel:Shimano 9 speed 11- 32T Extras: Alloy
suspension seat post; non slip pedals; Velco comfort seat & stainless
steel spokes.

Its actually a good looking bike to, quite happy now I have made up
my mind :)

Anyway, if all goes well, I will be taking it on the Yarra yarra trail
tommorow starting at Donvale, turning around after 20 k's, then back
again. Looking foward to it.. Well I am also looking foward to getting
back with some friends, a few bottles o' red, some scotch and the Pies
vs the Swans :D

GO PIES!



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
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[Cigs]

Claude, I contacted them, they have one in the large size just waiting
for me.... $999. Save $400. So that sounds decent to me :)

Frame:Light Alloy Frame. Fork: Manitou LUXE COMP 50mm travel
Brakes:Shimano Deore LX Brakes with LX levers. Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
LX front & Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur; 27 speed Shimano Deore LX
shifters, Shimano cranks. Wheels:Sun Rhyno Lite Alloy rims & Alloy hubs
with quick release. Freewheel:Shimano 9 speed 11- 32T Extras: Alloy
suspension seat post; non slip pedals; Velco comfort seat & stainless
steel spokes.

Its actually a good looking bike to, quite happy now I have made up
my mind :)

Anyway, if all goes well, I will be taking it on the Yarra yarra trail
tommorow starting at Donvale, turning around after 20 k's, then back
again. Looking foward to it.. Well I am also looking foward to getting
back with some friends, a few bottles o' red, some scotch and the Pies
vs the Swans :D

GO PIES!



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Claude]

Cigs
Did you end up buying the Shogun?


"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Claude, I contacted them, they have one in the large size just waiting
> for me.... $999. Save $400. So that sounds decent to me :)
>
> Frame:Light Alloy Frame. Fork: Manitou LUXE COMP 50mm travel
> Brakes:Shimano Deore LX Brakes with LX levers. Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
> LX front & Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur; 27 speed Shimano Deore LX
> shifters, Shimano cranks. Wheels:Sun Rhyno Lite Alloy rims & Alloy hubs
> with quick release. Freewheel:Shimano 9 speed 11- 32T Extras: Alloy
> suspension seat post; non slip pedals; Velco comfort seat & stainless
> steel spokes.
>
> Its actually a good looking bike to, quite happy now I have made up
> my mind :)
>
> Anyway, if all goes well, I will be taking it on the Yarra yarra trail
> tommorow starting at Donvale, turning around after 20 k's, then back
> again. Looking foward to it.. Well I am also looking foward to getting
> back with some friends, a few bottles o' red, some scotch and the Pies
> vs the Swans :D
>
> GO PIES!
>
>
>
> --
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Claude]

Cigs
Did you end up buying the Shogun?


"Cigs" > wrote in message
...
> Claude, I contacted them, they have one in the large size just waiting
> for me.... $999. Save $400. So that sounds decent to me :)
>
> Frame:Light Alloy Frame. Fork: Manitou LUXE COMP 50mm travel
> Brakes:Shimano Deore LX Brakes with LX levers. Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
> LX front & Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur; 27 speed Shimano Deore LX
> shifters, Shimano cranks. Wheels:Sun Rhyno Lite Alloy rims & Alloy hubs
> with quick release. Freewheel:Shimano 9 speed 11- 32T Extras: Alloy
> suspension seat post; non slip pedals; Velco comfort seat & stainless
> steel spokes.
>
> Its actually a good looking bike to, quite happy now I have made up
> my mind :)
>
> Anyway, if all goes well, I will be taking it on the Yarra yarra trail
> tommorow starting at Donvale, turning around after 20 k's, then back
> again. Looking foward to it.. Well I am also looking foward to getting
> back with some friends, a few bottles o' red, some scotch and the Pies
> vs the Swans :D
>
> GO PIES!
>
>
>
> --
> >--------------------------<
> Posted via cyclingforums.com
> http://www.cyclingforums.com