I'm looking for a full suss bike that I can build up for DH, but then ride back up the hill.
I'll occasionally visit Cwmcarn and other centres, but most riding will be on short downhills in local woods, where I'll have to ride / push back up.
I've been offered a second hand Heckler frame (fairly) cheap and want to know if it's strong enough for me to build up as a DH bike (coil shock, chain guide etc)?
I'm about 6'5" and pretty heavy (15-16 stone), but won't be pushing it too much. If the above isn't suitable please recommend alternative.
Thanks.
you'll be reet
A friend of mine has spent a good few years trying very hard to destroy his Heckler to no avail. It'll go.
Its what I do with mine
the 07 / 08 frames have had some cracking issues. I don't think it's been widespread but worth close inspection.have a look here
: http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=429538
you either will or you wont! Simple.
I used to sell them and some would come back snapped in 2 weeks and some are still going strong 10 years later.
Nice bikes mind! ride really well and strangley well suited to British riding.
Buy new and then you have the warranty!
Good luck 😀
Thanks everyone.
Jimmy - do you have any pics? (anyone else with pics of a DH type build would be appreciated - ta)
16.5 stone here - used it for all sorts of things in a clumsy and enthusiastic manner in the Peak/ W Lancs Moors/ trail centres for the last 4 years. Still on original bearings and once a year has the back end taken off to be fettled. Replaceable hanger is hellish expensive, but cheaper than a new back end.
Has endured where Orange Patriots have snapped/cracked/ broken.
Can be ridden XC but happier with gravity on side as you suggest.
http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=304003
More Heckler photo's than you can shake a pooey stick at here.
I think they look wrong for dh, far too short and steep, and maybe a bit tall.
Something longer and slacker would be better surely?
This is mine, a 'real jack of all trades master of none' bike* It'll do everything and is my first choice but comes into its own when pointed downhill.
[img] 
[/img]
*but bloody great fun whatever you're doing!
not a d/h build but pretty burly;
[IMG] 
[/IMG]
[IMG] 
[/IMG]