This is for a friend - a roadie that wants a reasonably priced ready-built bike. He's looking at around the £600-£700 price point, and asked me what I thought of a Focus at Wiggle for about 600 quid.
To be honest, I was rather unimpressed at the quality of components on it - Tektro brakes, RST forks - and have pointed him in the direction of some '09 and '10 Giants, Konas and GTs at Paul's Cycles.
Any other bargains knocking about? He's a 6 footer, so looking for a large.
And if there are any second hand full builds going, I'm sure he'd be interested.
Thanks in advance...
Halfords probably do a Boardman that's well specced for the price he's willing to spend.
I would agree that a last years model will get you better spec with minimal downsides especially if the frame hasn't changed. I bought a Kona Kula for my daughter from Pauls and it has been great value. Much better than a similarly priced current model.
Second hand will be better again if you can get a good one. As it happens I have a cannondale caffeine for sale for £520.....
http://www.singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/fs-racey-hardtail-rolling-chassis-size-large
I think the Caffeine might be a bit racey for his needs, thanks for the pointers so far though!
I would try this: http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=44845
Or look at some of the cube hardtails they always have a decent spec...
Hope this helps
£700, I'd buy a Carrera Fury and spend the change on hookers. Or possibly tyres and a nicer saddle. Ridiculously good bikes...