I need a new bike to get to work on when the Heep's down and hopefully to have some fun with once a month or so... stopped in a bike shop and liked this one. I really like the aluminum frame and front suspension idea, but I'm a broke ass, so over $300 is not really an option. Even this one (which I was quoted $279 for) is cuttin' it close. Is this a good bike or should I keep looking for a used Cannondale or something?
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.000.asp?lYear=2004&bikesection=8841&range=145&model=10879
Thanks,
Billy

That bike sounds descent. When i was in your situation with not having money and looking for a bike. I tried to find something with a good light frame. So in the future I could up grade the components as i had a little extra cash.

But i think the giant is a descent bike for the price

Have you thought about looking at a used bike? You can get more bang for your buck, if you find a good deal.

Have you thought about looking at a used bike? You can get more bang for your buck, if you find a good deal.


Yeah, I've been looking, I just haven't been finding much, and I don't know shit about which ones are good and which aren't. I know I like my friend's Cannondale F500, so I've been looking for used Cannondales. :dunno:
Thanks,
Billy

Giant makes a good bike. It realy depends on what you're going to do with that bike, but looking at the specs I'd say that one was disposable. Suntour does not have a great reputation when it comes to forks, their cranks should be fine. See if you could upgrade to an inexpensive Rock Shox or Marzoucchi. Upgrade the pedals, plastic pedals last about one accidental hit on anything harder than rubber.

Personally I'd be looking for a used or one of last years discontinued bikes, you'll get a lot more for your money. Check sport consignment stores, around here they're full of cheap bikes because all the new ones are coming in and people are upgrading. Plus there's always ebay.

I found a previous rental that I think I'm going to buy. It's last years Giant Yukon and it's only $175! As long as it's in good shape I'll be bringing it home tonight. Thanks for all your help guys!

Our shop is a big giant dealer here in the SE. The boulder is a pretty good bike. We've really had very few problems out of them. Giant also has the best warranty program around. good luck!

Our shop is a big giant dealer here in the SE. The boulder is a pretty good bike. We've really had very few problems out of them. Giant also has the best warranty program around. good luck!


I ended up getting the Giant Yukon, but the guy at the bike rental place where I bought it didn't know jack about their warranty... care to fill me in a little bit? Also, is it hard to adjust the derailers, mine has some trouble between 4th and 5th gear?
Thanks,
Billy

I race bikes to make money, mainly road but I do Mt also. Your derailur is more than like not the problem. If this is the bike that you bought at a rental place, it has been ridden a lot and the chain has streched and I am sure the rear cassett needs to be changed. The gears get worn and chains streach which can cause the problems that you are seeing. Have a pro check it out.

I agree with having a pro look over the bike, but don't write off your cog set or chain so quickly because I'm sure a shop would love to sell you new stuff. Any number of things can cause a problem shifting between two gears; bad cables, bad cable housing, bent derailer hanger, out of adjustment, B tension not set properly, even something as simple as being dirty and not lubed.

Thanks a lot guys.