Conference noted::bicycle

3055.0. "Need help selecting mountain bike" by ANGST::BURTON (Jim Burton, DTN 381-0272) Wed Mar 20 1996 11:22

I am in the process of buying a new mountain bike and need you opinions since
my presious knowledge is limited to road bikes. I am a big man at 6'3" and 200
pounds (89 kg) with powerful legs.  In my earlier years, I sheared a freewheel
off the rear hub while going up a hill.  I probably don't have that level of
strength anymore, but I don't want to buy 'too low' just in case. 

I have been looking at mtn bikes in the $350-450 range, more specifically the
Cannondale M200SE and the equivalent Trek.  I really like the ride and the
look of the Cannondale, but have concerns that it has an aluminum frame. Will
aluminum frames hold up to off-road cycling?  
Here is what is important to me:

                     o strong, well-made frame
                     o reasonably light weight
                     o shifters work well if maintained properly
                     o nice looking
                     o good for paved road (50%), dirt road (30%), and 
                       woods (20%)
                     o not over $400
                     o wheel bearings are very smooth

Should I be considering moving up to another price range or purchasing a
high-quality used bike? 

Jim 

    Hi Jim,
    $400 limit: it's hard for a manufacturer to get any margin for
    a dealer and themselves these days at that price point.  If you
    could bump up to $600-$700 range, a lot more opens up.  Your
    idea of looking at a used bike might be better... you probably
    want a 20"+ frame.  As for aluminum, more and more lines (example:
    Specialized for '96) are bringing in aluminum and replacing steel.
    I myself have a steel mtn bike and leave the aluminum and carbon
    to the road bikes, but I gotta believe these newer Al models are
    built to take it.
    .02 Kratz 

    Call Dave Rivetts. He's in ELF.
    
    Chip

    For what its worth, I bought a Cannondale M400 two seasons ago.  I too
    am on the large size, 6'9" and 250 lbs.  I ahve had no problems with
    the aluminum frame, in fact, its very stiff compared to the steel
    road bike I ride.  Its taken the beating and rides well.  The M400 is
    now up to $650, but I'd check at the shop to see if the frame and
    grade of material if the same.  If so, the M200 should hold up fine.
    
    ...Tom