I read the First Time buyers guide at the top of the sub and wanted to buy one of the recommended hard tails. I've read that the industry hasn't recovered from the COVID surge so most offerings are out of stock. I'm in Oregon, USA for what it's worth. Large frame since I'm 6'0".
I'm weary of bikesonline.com based on what I've read about customer service for the Xtrada. Canyon bikes are a little too much $ for me at the moment.
I think my only options are to wait it out, or try and find a deal on pinkbike, CL or FB marketplace. Any recommendations on moving forward? My family have fairly up to date rides, except me with a ~1995 Schwinn! I want something that has good upgradability.
From the buyers guide:
Polygon Xtrada 7 $1100 – Solid bike, boost frame with air fork, but lacking a dropper post.
Norco Fluid HT 2 $900 – Solid hardtail, great drivetrain, dropper post, but has a lower end fork.
Salsa Rangefinder Deore 11 $1200 – Air Fork, Solid Drivetrain, Dropper Post. Unfortuantely no rear thru-axle
Trek Roscoe 6+ $1200 This bike check's all the boxes, air fork, good drivetrain, boost spacing, dropper post. The Roscoe lineup as a whole is a good value.
Specialized Fuse 27.5 $950 – Check's all the boxes.
Marin San Quentin 29 $1400 Check's all the boxes in terms of components.
by olafberzerk
3 Comments
If you can actually find the Fuse in stock it’s hard to say no to. The industry is moving towards 29″ wheels (again), only you know whether that matters to you or not.
The only thing advice I have is to test ride a L and an XL in whatever you try. You’re right on the edge of most brands’ L/XL at 6’0″.
I have owned 7 high end bicycles and never have I ever purchased a brand new bike. You’re selling yourself short to buy new in that price range.
I bought a polygon e-bike for my gf through BikesOnline and have not had an issue.