It isn't designed to be the price of a Ragley. Hell i've seen a few in the flesh & wouldnt even go there, but its a totally different kettle of fish. Comparing a Ragley to a Foes is like comparing an Apollo to a Titus. Why do any of us buy expensive bikes when there is a cheaper option? We do it for the enjoyment factor.
Well thank you very much sir… your comments are most professional.
I was going to ask why on earth anyone would spec a 69deg head angle on a 150mm forked bike, but decided not to on grounds of respect for other manufacturers.
*hugs*
don't ragley make handbags, the ones with the little dogs on them?
Much as I hate the mmmbop's astetics with a passion, a 3.4lb, 160mm forked hardtail frame that we've not been seeing falling apart on the trails. Hats of to Brant, looks he's onto a winner IMO. Although I still cant quite see (im assuming, dealers and CRC/hotlines take a cut, but still…) why its twice the price of an on-one, and even beeting with an ugly stick (to form the tubes into a more pleasing shape) would be an asthetic improvement.
As for the enjoyment factor, splunking £500 extra for some bendy tubes (and is it just me that thinks the seatstay link looks like it will catch on legs/ankles?) over a fairly well proven (touch wood) design? Even the Yeti DJ frames are considderably cheeper and have similar levels of tube manipulation and niche market.
I'm sorry but a combination of Jamies attitude, gopping asthetics and questionable geometry, a price you could buy a full susser for, I'm out.