1. The most important thing about buying a new bike is to make sure it fits. The only way you'll know if the bike is right for you is to size up the bike and make sure that the bike's geometry matches your body's geometry. Ask questions and do some research.
mtn. biking 101
2. If possible, try to find a shop that will let you demo the bike on real dirt. Five minutes in a parking lot won't cut it. You wouldn't buy a car without a real world test drive, and a bike should be no different.
3. Don't belive the hype. Just because your favorite rider or best friend rides a certain bike, that doesn't mean that's the best one for you. Have an open mind and be realistic about your needs and ability.
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  1. 04-01-2011 #1
    muffetmd
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    Cannondale Chase 3 vs. Windsor Cliff 4500

    Hello,

    I am relatively new to mountain biking and just purchased a Cannondale Chase 3 on craigslist for 350. When looking online I found a Windsor Cliff 4500 on bikesdirect.com for 350.

    My question is which bike is better? The Cannondale Chase or Windsor 4500?

    Cannondale Chase
    -80mm Travel Suntour Duro Fork
    -SRAM X-4 Rear Derailleur
    -Front and Rear 160mm Disk Brakes

    Windsor 4500 (LINK TO BIKE)
    -100mm Travel RockShox Dart 1
    -Shimano Deore
    -Front and Rear Disk Brakes
    http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/..._cliff4500.htm

    I mainly ride xc trails with some downhill riding. Thanks for your help
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  2. 04-01-2011 #2
    muffetmd
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    Anyone? Any opinions at all? I know this is probably a stupid question but I'm just trying to learn more about mountain biking and bikes.
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  3. 04-01-2011 #3
    mimi1885
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    Cannondale Chase is the Dirt Jump version it may not be practical as an XC bike. The only way to find out is to try it out.
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  4. 04-01-2011 #4
    muffetmd
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    Quote Originally Posted by mimi1885
    Cannondale Chase is the Dirt Jump version it may not be practical as an XC bike. The only way to find out is to try it out.
    Thats what I was thinking too, but I rode BMX in the past so I figured the Cannondale Chase would be an easy transition for me.

    Now my other question was, I have a front crankset that would fit the Chase perfectly (175mm Alivio square taper) would it be practical to turn a DJ into a mountain bike? I also have a SRAM X-5 front.
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  5. 04-01-2011 #5
    mimi1885
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    Practical no, fun at times why not. I don't know if you can put a front der on the frame though. DJ bike is kinda long and low that may or may not be good for XC riding. It's your call.

    I know this Chase somewhat do what Windsor can do but not the other way around, because repeated jumps and landing would break XC frame.
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