Wotcha folks.
So after a 10 year break I recovered my 2006 Carrera Kraken from my father’s garage. It had been stuffed in there to work abroad and previously it was on kiddy trailer towing duties.
I went out for a few spins (and didn’t die as anticipated!) And now have also acquired a Cannondale Trail One 2011 vintage for my overseas job (touring).
So a little personal info which might enable you experienced folk to aid me spend some cash.
I started riding MTB in the early 90’s. Of course it was all XC really and DH was exotica from the states to read about in MBUK. I had a Raleigh M-Trax ti, GT Zaskar, Carrera Zelos and then the Kraken. So nothing amazing.
Being 5’10 and 105 kg with stumpy 29″ legs I really should have stuck with rugby, but it ain’t as much fun!
I’ve had a mini mid 40’s kick up the bum and have addressed a healthier diet and started cycling again. I feel so much better and then I went to Wind Hill B1kepark……
Never had so much fun sober for a loooong time! So yeah it’s time to research some new wheels.
To help me cut through the media must haves I’ve spent some dosh upgrading the Kraken. It now has Rockshox Recon 100mm forks as opposed to some heavy ornamental things adorning the frame. 740 mm bars and a 50mm stem. Along with grippy flats and 510’s and a pair
Of sticky Minions. I’m understanding some of the preachings. Of course it’s bloody heavy for a hardtail and has a twitchy steering HA.
My normal trails are singletrack through the forests with climbs and descents all built up by the local good guys at Longleat. And I’m going to be at Wind Hill pretty often.
So after that yawn inducing ramble we get to the good bit where you can spend someone else’s money!
I’m looking at 2.5k max. I (think) I would like full suspension and 29er wheels. I tend to get arm pump so want anything to reduce fatigue. I’ve also suffered numb hands in the past alot. It seems anything long and low on the back puts my wrist at the wrong angle for me. I also have stumpy legs so it seems all size charts guide me to medium size.
Recently I’ve been researching the Vitus Escarpe vrx 29. Of course I can’t ignore a Jeffsy Al one 29 and Bird Bikes are only down the road.
In reality for a bike to be enjoyable on local trails and bike park outings what essential things should I be looking for? I’ll not be racing or doing monstrous doubles but I do want to improve at going up and down but mostly often and having fun.
I must say how impressed I’ve been with how mountain biking has matured. I see lots of guys out on the trails and the bike parks speak for themselves. I’m really happy to be back into it again.