Howdy,
Im a 6'2 320lb guy who just got back from tearing everything in my knee. I'm retired from ball now and I'm looking for a new hobby/ a way to stay in shape. I have a few buddies who are into the off road mountain biking scene, who were little help considering they are all under 130. After searching around for the information on here I've basically come to the conclusion that i need a hard tail for strength and for easier maintenance with hydro brakes and shocks in the front. i was considering the KHS six fifty 606 would this be a safe choice? or other recommendations?
There is nothing inherently "weaker" about a FS, compared to a HT.
Yes, they will be more maintenance intensive. You'll have to pop bearings out from time to time.
But, they will also help reduce some of the fatigue and wear and tear on the frame itself. A bike that absorbs kinetic energy will do better under your mass than a bike that simply... hits it, then bounces off.
They are also a bit more forgiving for that reason.
Given that bikes as a whole are not designed for clydes, it's very hard to get a FS to work properly for a 320lb guy.
KHS have a reputation for making pretty tough bikes (they make REAL clyde road bikes), but most any of the other big brands would also do you fine. Buy something, ride it, repair and upgrade as you go. A hard tail bike would be my recommendation, but what are you planning to ride? Tarmac, trails, big drops?
So long as you avoid pure XC racing machines you should be fine with most any reputable brand's frame.
I'm 275 and I wail pretty hard on a Santa Cruz Tallboy. It hasn't even flinched.
I'm of the opinion that rear suspension is still worthwhile, even at your weight. You just need to be diligent in your search that the rear shock will allow pressures suitable for your weight.
I agree completely. I am trying to gauge a bike which would be ideal for what i want to build up to. I plan on working my way up as i get my leg back and gain some confidence on my bike. Ad as a "tough option" I'm assuming you mean that its a hard option to beat?
Yes. As far as a HT designed for some abuse, the Honzo is a good example. There are others out there and I recommend you search the threads in this forum for more examples.
I'd suggest that whatever you get, make sure it has an air fork up front. I'm no x-fusion expert, but I think the fork that comes with the KHS bike you mentioned isn't air-sprung. I ride a Specialized Crave with a Fox air fork and it's been bulletproof for my 280 pound butt (I got the bike at 350 pounds the fat just started dropping off), fwiw. The Kona Honzo that others mentioned DOES have an air fork. Air works much better and is much more adjustable for us big dudes.
Whatever you get, have fun!
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