Ok, I realise I'm going back in time here. I currently ride a Dialled PA or Alpine and fancy a change. I'm looking for something lighter, faster on flat and uphill but that still gives some confidence on the downhill and could be ok all day or in shorter endurance events. Possibly looking at carbon or ti so something like Cove Hummer or similar? Obviously getting fitter and stronger will help but like I said fancy a change. Any thoughts?
Not just to be the first....
But if your going to be dropping carbon or ti cash have you considered 650/29 more for future proofing?
carbon 29'er no doubt
the new generation of race hardtails are coming with slacker HA as courses have become more technical
If you're determined to stay 26" then maybe the on one c456?
Original was light enough to race xc but still fun. The evo probably better still.
Shame they (or anyone else) hasn't done a 29" version with long front end, 67 or 68 degree HA and 430mm chainstays.
Hint hint.
got a Cotic Soda for sale, fits your description, its a medium. email in profile (i think).
Me sir me sir!
I did this. Decided the PA was a bit heavy even though it was tonnes of fun. Wanted a 'quicker' option but not full heads down bum up 'race.'
Went for a kinesis xc130 frame, swapped everything across. It's light, it's quick, every now and again it feels a little steep up front but not really. I've enjoyed it for the last couple of years and (not that it matters) got stravaaaaaaaa Pbs on lots of local trails.
A bit stiff when you get it wrong mind.
Cheap as chips to buy if you can find a frame. Suits both 100mm and 120mm.
Have a soul itch that's not going away so will probably go there next.
A Chromag Stylus. Might even have a mint frame hanging around......... 🙂
Thanks for the replies folks. 650b or 29er is an option but my budget isn't massive, that's why I was thinking for the same price as a cheap frame, wheels and forks in a new size I could get a nice used frame. Open to all options though. Might check that out moonboy thanks. Soul/soda definitely an option, have there been issues with sodas cracking? Is this an issue with just these or to frames in general?
May I suggest one of these
http://www.fatbirds.co.uk/573366/products/kinesis-decade-virsa-2-sram-x5-mountain-bike-green-2013.aspx
Cracking bike, yes it is steel but they are so swap-able ( real word btw). I ran mine SS, Alfine and 1 x 10 with 120mm forks.
Old Soul