I was all set to order a Fisher Piranha from the LBS, but their lack of effort in service has caused me to re-think where I will be dropping my cash. Without going into great detail, I've been in the shop (a 30 mile drive one-way, so it's not actually local, but the closest dealer with even a decent selection of bikes), 3 separate times, and have maybe spent a total of 5 minutes talking with a knowledgeable bike salesman. As I visited this past Saturday, after asking for help, I was left to wander the store for over an hour without anyone offering assistance. I know it can get busy, but I just don't get a good feeling about spending $$$ there.
Anyway, I've decided to visit Asheville, NC (a little over an hour away) and judging from my phone conversations with 3 stores, I feel like I could get better service and better selection at the cost of a drive over the mountain. Herein lies my question:
Now I will be able to view so many more options. Not only does a store have a Fisher Piranha, but I will have an opportunity to look at many other bikes. From looking at websites, I also plan on looking at a Specialized Rockhopper, Giant Rainer, and a Kona Caldera, and I guess anything else that catches my eye.
I don't want to go any higher than $900, as I'm new to mtn biking, but not to bicycling. But, I'm the type of person that likes to get the best possible item I can afford, to avoid buyers remorse later. There are some pretty decent trails in my area, but I don't plan on getting too radical with riding (at least in the beginning). Mainly looking for exercise, recreation and just getting outdoors more.
But in looking at bikes, I keep gravitating back to the Kona bikes. Don't know if it's their presentation or what, but I really like the specs and looks of the Kona. Now I realize I might hate it once I get on, but would like some feedback. After searching, I've read that the fork is not the best - Marzocchi MZ-2. Any other thoughts on the Kona, or other options? From searching, I see that Ibex is highly recommended, but I don't feel like I'm ready to pick out a bike without some sales assistance at this point.
Thanks and I must say this is a great forum!!
Greg
edit: Forgot to mention that I'm 5'10" and 180-185 lbs (part of the reason I need to start biking again!) with a 32" inseam. And when I spoke to two shops that carried Kona (one in Asheville and one in Boone), the guys on the phone spoke very highly of the Kona's.
Anyway, I've decided to visit Asheville, NC (a little over an hour away) and judging from my phone conversations with 3 stores, I feel like I could get better service and better selection at the cost of a drive over the mountain. Herein lies my question:
Now I will be able to view so many more options. Not only does a store have a Fisher Piranha, but I will have an opportunity to look at many other bikes. From looking at websites, I also plan on looking at a Specialized Rockhopper, Giant Rainer, and a Kona Caldera, and I guess anything else that catches my eye.
I don't want to go any higher than $900, as I'm new to mtn biking, but not to bicycling. But, I'm the type of person that likes to get the best possible item I can afford, to avoid buyers remorse later. There are some pretty decent trails in my area, but I don't plan on getting too radical with riding (at least in the beginning). Mainly looking for exercise, recreation and just getting outdoors more.
But in looking at bikes, I keep gravitating back to the Kona bikes. Don't know if it's their presentation or what, but I really like the specs and looks of the Kona. Now I realize I might hate it once I get on, but would like some feedback. After searching, I've read that the fork is not the best - Marzocchi MZ-2. Any other thoughts on the Kona, or other options? From searching, I see that Ibex is highly recommended, but I don't feel like I'm ready to pick out a bike without some sales assistance at this point.
Thanks and I must say this is a great forum!!
Greg
edit: Forgot to mention that I'm 5'10" and 180-185 lbs (part of the reason I need to start biking again!) with a 32" inseam. And when I spoke to two shops that carried Kona (one in Asheville and one in Boone), the guys on the phone spoke very highly of the Kona's.