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Although I am an avid TREKkie fan for touring, I'm *NOT* so impressed
about their mtn bike offering. Especially since last year's model
is the last American-made (sic!) model. They're made in taiwan
this year I hear. This news really got me down on trek. As far
as quality for the money, I think you might find a canondale or
a rockhopper (specialized) with better components than the trek
for the same or better price.
Make him throw in a set of blackburn racks and maybe some panniers
if you can't find a better deal. (I always tell them that they
can't expect to sell without givin' something!)
good luck!
\rik
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| Yes, the 830 is the Taiwanese model, and has Shimano gears with
the new "smooth shift" or whatever feature. Supersports said
they do have an American made ATB, but at a higher price.
Since they were supposed to call me with an availability date for
the black painted version (they had bright red in stock, and I'm
not enthusiastic about bright red except on Alfa Romeo cars), and
haven't yet, and since they don't have any of my money, I think
the deal may be off. I did stop back in early in the week, which
should have given them the impression I was serious, and they
haven't followed up.
I _am_ in the market for an off-road/mountain/all-terrain bike,
but I don't think these folks are going to get my business.
Any suggestions on good shops in the Marlboro/Northboro/Westboro
area?
Tom
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Any shop, except for a schlock joint, won't assume you're serious
until you make it CLEAR you're serious. If you appear wishy-washy
then they'll treat you as such. It's much better to deal this way
than the hard sell crap.
Jim Tuttle, who owns Supersports, is a newcomer to the business,
and therefore still is ironing out some of the kinks. If it's the
bike you don't like, then move onward, but if you REALLY want to
make a deal, talk to Jim directly, he's there on Saturdays. He's
a good friend of mine, tell him you know me and mention this file,
he knows about it. I'm sure he'll take care of you.
The only other shop worth your time in this area is Bike Barn. Donny
is a straight shooter, he won't bend your ear and he knows the business
and his products well. He's one of the larger Cannondale dealers
around, and he had a fantastic year last season with them. He also
knows me and should help you out.
Insofar as the bikes are concerned, I'd get the Cannondale. The
racing/touring bikes are too unfriendly and harsh riding for me,
I much prefer a steel frame. But the mountain bike is a PERFECT
application for this frame technology, where stiffness and strength
are more important than a smooth ride (obviously). Good components,
good price, and a guaranteed frame.
Chris deHahn
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