Hey guys, did not realize there was a forum for Ibex but I have found it! I am new to biking and have a very limited budget since I am getting married and starting graduate school this fall. I have been looking at buying a fisher wahoo or trek 4300 and have stumbles across Ibex bikes. They have better components than the other two, Alpine 350 is cheaper and with better components. My main concern is if I buy the Ibex instead of a bike from my LBS will I get treated any differently when I go there for some maintanence issues that I will not be able to take care of my self. The assembly does not seem challenging it is just some of the adjustments that I will need to make. So the question is since it is my first bike should I buy from a LBS or save some money and get a better bike by buying the Ibex? I have been fitted for a trek and fisher, so I know the size that I would need to buy, the geometry of the Ibex seems very similar to the geometry of the trek so I am assuming it will ride very similar. Any help of this issue would be appreciated. PS I am very mechanically inclined and do most of the maintenance on my vehicles.

Your LBS shouldnt give you any problems if you bring an Ibex in for maintanence. If you buy an Ibex you'll probably want to try some other bikes to see how they fit. If a medium frame Trek fits you then you'll probably need to buy a medium frame Ibex. I'm like 5'10" and bought an 18" Ibex. It fits me pretty well, if i was any shorter though I'd probably need the next smaller size.

No, the bike store nearest you shouldn't give a **** what brand name of bike they work on, and if they do then go somewhere else. I'd say take it to the shop if the wheels are out of true or bent as sometimes happens with bikes shipped through ups; otherwise the initial set up is easy ( if you can't attach the handlebars, pedals, and front tire, you likely shouldnt ride the bike ) Ibex is just as good as trek or fisher, just cheaper for lack of a middleman.

If you buy from a local shop, they'll cut you deals on upgrades and such. You can do component swaps (for only the difference in costs between the stock part and a upgrade). They'll also handle minor issues such as shifting, various adjustments, and minor wheel truing for free.

Hey guys, did not realize there was a forum for Ibex but I have found it! I am new to biking and have a very limited budget since I am getting married and starting graduate school this fall. PS I am very mechanically inclined and do most of the maintenance on my vehicles.

Given these two factors, Ibex is very well suited for your situation. They make a very good bike, and if you can do your own maintenance, I say go ahead and make the purchase. I am an Ibex owner and wouldn't hesitate to purchase another bike from them.

Best wishes,

Bob

As you've noticed, you will definitely get more bang for your buck with the Ibex. I have an Alpine 550, and I love it.

I just took it in to my LBS last week for the first time and had no problems. If they give you problems, don't give them your money - simple as that. I think you'll find that most shops are happy to work on your bike, as that's one of the last areas they can still compete.

Be sure to let us know how it turns out....

I purchased an Ignition 2 and it is a great bike. You get more for your money from IBEX.
I just ordered my son an Alpine 440k. I think they are great bikes.

Ibex bikes are very well made, I had just purchased an Ignition 2 and did upgrade a few parts myself but had my LBS adjust the front Derailer. this is my first True Mountain bike purchase in about 10 years so I too was concerned on if I should pick a Trek, Giant or Ibex but Im glad I pick the Ibex, great customer support (if you buy your bike directly from Ibex) other than that, I say go for it you wont be disapointed. :D

i have 2 ibexs, apogee sport and a road bike, vantage 5500
500 miles on the sport and 1500 on the vantage. no problems all still working great
have had both serviced at lbs, wheels trued etc. no problems.
if they like the quality.
wish they made an all carbon road frame..

karl