Alabama Mountain Biking Thread

I don't think he likes us. Or did you show him a picture of me? That'll scare new people away if they aren't cool with being around baboons.

 

lol nah he was out all day yesterday for some training and I think he's out again today for it. this is a new coworker btw.

old coworker wants to go buy has hockey tonight.

 

Gotcha. Maybe one day someone else will come with us.

Have you checked out the Trailhead bike shop over by Lowe Mill? I might go look after we ride if its not too late and they're closed.

 

I have not. I might potentially join you.

 

They close at 6:30, so we may not have enough time afterward. They're open during the day on Saturday though which is nice.

 

yeah I bet we won't make it in time. I've never been there. I would like to hit the local shops and see what quality hardtails they have for < $1k

 

I have no doubt you'll find something. They carry Specialized there and one other brand I can't remember. And no telling what they sell for trade ins. I'm more or less looking for a new helmet. I've had mine for almost 9 years. Its about time for a new one.

 

yeah helmets have a life span on them...fyi...

I think Kona is their other brand, they show them online actually.

 

I know... hence why I'm shopping.

I wanna say, 5 years is really the recommended lift cycle for helmets if they aren't in any crashes.

 

I think that's correct, and some have a 1 time crash rating.

I want a full face, but feel like as bad as I am...I'd look ridiculous with one lol

 

Its been said before, but if you're willing to spend up to $1k (or a bit more) on a bike. I'd highly recommend skipping a new bike from a shop and looking into the used market. At that price range you'll get more bang for your buck buying used.

Don't at all take that as if I am trying to steer you or anyone from buying from your LBS. I am a HUGE proponent of spending money at brick and mortar.

 

I just want a helmet that covers the back of my head and doesn't look like an alien space craft.

Something like this.

Giro Chronicle MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet - Medium (55-59 cm), Matte Black/Gloss Black (2020)

https://www.amazon.com/Giro-Chronic...goods&sprefix=POC+mtb+hel,sporting,170&sr=1-3

 

I just don't see anything on the market for quality hardtails, maybe I'm looking in the wrong places.

 

that looks good!

 

I'd order it, but I want to physically try one on.

 

I'm not, but I keep an eye on facebook marketplace and craigslist.

There's a huge used full suspension market it seems, but not quality hardtails. I feel like folks buy 1 quality hardtail...and just keep it....so no used ones getting sold.

Tell me I'm wrong, I want to be wrong....that's just how it seems to me.

 

That can be a downside to buying used as what is on the market is such a moving target. If you're flexible on timeframe, just keep watching Pink Bike/CL/Ebay/FB Marketplace.

If you need something soon, buy new locally. There a great benefits to buying at your LBS that go beyond just the initial bike purchase itself.

 

my requirements for my next bike are:

29er, 1x drivetrain, hardtail, sub 1000$

 

I'm not a bookfacer, so I never look at that platform when shopping. CL is a dying arena. Not to say you can't find things there though. I use PB for most anything bike related when going used.

If you don't have a specific bike/frame in mind, be sure to look in both the All mountain/Freeride as well as the XC categories when using Pink Bike.

 

What defines a quality hardtail for you?

Edit - didn’t see your above comment