Hi everyone, I'm trying to choose between these 2 bikes – an early 90s rigid Specialized Rockhopper with a chromoly steel frame, or a much newer Dawes Galaxy with a Reynolds 631 steel frame.
Primary use is going to be a trip from Albania to Milan over summer, predominately on EuroVelo routes. I'd also want to use it for future cycle trips, possibly in areas with rougher roads like parts of Asia and South America. I'll also use it for commuting in between trips, so it needs to be capable on UK roads, canal paths, some gravel etc.
Also worth mentioning that I already own the Rockhopper, it's in decent condition but been sat for years. Would need wheels trued, a pannier rack, and maybe a couple other small upgrades to run really well. I can buy the Galaxy from a mate for £300, but its's barely ridden and ready to go.
by Comprehensive_Let319
4 Comments
Galaxy.
Galaxy would be such a good long distance tour bike in comparison. Could probably carry just as much more comfortably
IMO this decision boils down to handle bar comfort so I would go for the Rockhopper.
The Galaxy, every day of the week. A classic touring bike is one of the the most versatile bikes going. I find those vintage Rockhoppers really shit for off road too and I have owned quite a few ATBs. I did 3000 miles across India on a 26er. I went back and did another 800 after that too, then sold off all my 26ers and never looked back. You will absolutely hoof it past 99% of the other bikes on an EV route with a Galaxy, and not just on the road sections.