Hi,
I have rashly ordered a frame online in a mid life crisis sort of way.
I am just wondering about (budget) build options for wheels and forks especially. Bike will be used for xc/trail riding, I way 12 stone/circa 85kg and most of the air I get comes from my guts.
Fork:
I was hoping to add a 15mm fork, which seem to be available in Reba/Revelation/Sektor models in a zillion configurations on Merlin. What would best suit my style?
I like Reba’s which I have on my hard tail, but was wondering if I should go for something with more travel (150mm Sektor/Revelation). Can anyone tell me the difference between RL and RLT? Also all the models available tend to be 1 1/8 steerer sizes – is a 1.5 steerer a vast improvement? I was thinking of going for an air model.
Wheelset:
I have an old, slightly knackered set of QR 317 Mavics with cheapo hubs. I can either use these or a set of Mavic Crossrides (currently on hard tail), but only if I go for a QR fork. I often use 2.25 Maxxis Ardents and am currently trying 2.35 high roller on the front for the winter, so where possible like higher volume with relatively light weight.
Other options:
Crazy flash Hope build with 15mm as required.
Stans ZTR 355 with XT hubs from Merlin, for half the price. Are the ZTR 355 rims too light for the intended use?
Thoughts appreciated as ever.