These bikes any good?

[Aj23]

Well department store bikes suck according to everyone here, but a few people seems to say the following bike is actually good. Can any tell me if it would be worth getting?

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=47052

The following ones were not recommended by anyone, but look alright to me. Which is the best or should I just go for a completely different bike (light use need a cheap bike)

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=46999

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=43655

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=46999

[dasaylay]

Nakamura = No

budget in the $150 range? Might be hard to find a bike that won't tire you out so quickly. If you want to stick to Sport Chek, I'd go with their Ironhorse bikes.

[peppy5]

Comp HT 07 is the choice out of those 4 bikes imho. the other 2 bikes that offer dual suspension at this price range will most likely be just a gimmick and will just weigh you down.

looks like you get a quick release for the front wheel and looks like you get shimano tourney rear deraileur which is bottom of the barrel for shimano as far as name brand shimano deraileurs go. having said that, it's hard to tell by the pic. in the description it claims it's a 18 speed but it should be 21 in this price range.

ride it, see if it fits you. fit is the most important. i'd rather ride long rides on a cheaper that fits than a $5000-$10000 bike that doesn't.

[Aj23]

Nakamura = No

budget in the $150 range? Might be hard to find a bike that won't tire you out so quickly. If you want to stick to Sport Chek, I'd go with their Ironhorse bikes.

The cheapest Iron horse seems to be $250....to much for me. Remember I am just using this for light riding and only looking for something of better quality than the department store bikes....not really anything High end.

[dasaylay]

Well, from the 4 you posted, avoid the dual suspension bikes as it'll probably do more harm than good since I doubt they have any real R&D on proper rear suspension. Stick to the hardtail bikes.

Out of the other two, the HT 07 seems to be the better one. However, it is still Nakamura and I'd consider it another department store brand.

Did you mean light riding as in light trail riding or for commute riding?

[Aj23]

Did you mean light riding as in light trail riding or for commute riding?


Both

[Aj23]

How about this one on craigslist?

[Aj23]

How about this one?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/676108555.html

Or this one?

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=47463

[Aj23]

Found this one too.

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/676587481.html

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/671905226.html

[Kasakato]

$250 is no where near high end, Im not even sure if it qualifies to be low end. Trust me, the extra $100 for a better bike is worth it. Your gears shift smoother, your peddles spin freer, and you get a much better frame. Take a look at a used Giant Boulder 06 or older.

[Aj23]

$250 is no where near high end, Im not even sure if it qualifies to be low end. Trust me, the extra $100 for a better bike is worth it. Your gears shift smoother, your peddles spin freer, and you get a much better frame. Take a look at a used Giant Boulder 06 or older.

Actually that sportchek linked bike was another one used going for $150...anything more than that all in is a too much for me and not worth it.

[Oni-kun]

I agree, giant boulder is a good choice and decent price. I think this year's model is actually aluminum frame too

[Aj23]

I agree, giant boulder is a good choice and decent price. I think this year's model is actually aluminum frame too

For $150...lol. I am not looking to spend a lot as I have said many times. I am not a crazy guy in need of the best bike. My old Huffy dual suspension bike from Walmart was fine for me until it got to small and it lasted quite a long time. This time, I want something of better quality though for speed and endurance, but still not looking to drop a lot of money, just the best value for it.

[Oni-kun]

You're contradicting yourself. You can't get a better quality bike at that price range unless you buy a used bike that is in immaculate condition. Or get a used bike around that price and then pay to get it tuned up or do it yourself. You get what you pay for.

[Rx-87]

If you're looking to spend over $200 + tax on a bicycle. Go to a Local bike shop.. they may still carry older models (years) and if so you may be able to barter for a "lower retail value".

As these bike stores would definitely be looking to "be rid" of that inventory, by any means possible as long as they're still making a "profit." Heck you never know, they may sell it to you at shop 'cost' depending on the way you approach them. As in, be sincere to the sport and don't gawk and question why some bicycles are like over $2,000 in the shop or add comments like how can bicycles possibly be worth that much. Stuff like that lol.

[TenzoR]

I picked up a 2003 Giant Sedona from Craigslist this weekend. It was cheaper than buying new and should be fine for a beginner like me.

[Aj23]

These bikes all of you are suggesting are out of my range. Any good deals on craigslist or another site for an alright single suspension bike?

[Oni-kun]

Well then here are your choices.

1. Fork over more money get a better bike
2. Go get a CrappyTire bike
3. Keep hunting on Craigslist but it may still be out of your price range.

[Aj23]

Well then here are your choices.

1. Fork over more money get a better bike
2. Go get a CrappyTire bike
3. Keep hunting on Craigslist but it may still be out of your price range.

More looking to just hunt on Craigslist right now....Would i get better deals on good bikes in the US at around $150-$200 All in? Also where is a good bike shop to get older bikes here at cheap prices? And how about in the US?

[Oni-kun]

I saw some 2007's maybe even 2006's at Silent Sports at 111 Doncaster. Near Yonge Street and Doncaster (North of Steeles). Their website lists some 2006's.

They have the giant boulder 2006 listed. I don't know what stock they actually have in store but you could call them and ask what the cheapest hard tail mountain bike they have is. Maybe you can talk them down a bit in price if its 2006 model

http://www.silentsports.com/store/category/12/81/MTB%3A-Recreational-Front-Susp./

[Aj23]

how about the diamondback in this link...is it any good?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/680733854.html

[wushudrew]

how about the diamondback in this link...is it any good?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/680733854.html

no. for the price, doubly no.

[Aj23]

no. for the price, doubly no.

Alright than, anything on craigslist that you would suggest?

[TenzoR]

Alright than, anything on craigslist that you would suggest?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/682002575.html

You may want to look into this, maybe this could a good bike. Ask for a picture :)

[Aj23]

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/682002575.html

You may want to look into this, maybe this could a good bike. Ask for a picture :)

Alright, thanks. Ill look into it.

[Kasakato]

For $150...lol. I am not looking to spend a lot as I have said many times. I am not a crazy guy in need of the best bike. My old Huffy dual suspension bike from Walmart was fine for me until it got to small and it lasted quite a long time. This time, I want something of better quality though for speed and endurance, but still not looking to drop a lot of money, just the best value for it.

Contradiction. Quality bikes dont come cheap.

$150, $200, heck, $300 is not going to get you the "best" bike. Your really only going to be getting a decent crappy, low end bike, so-to-speak. Canadian Tire bikes do qualify to be on my little scale.

Spend the extra $50-100 and get at least a Boulder 06.

[scarboroughjoe]

If you're going to only be doing light riding, then get a crappy bike. You won't have to worry about it getting stolen either (either because it won't, or because you have spent so little, it won't be that big of a loss).

For what is a 'good' bike you'll be spending a lot more $ than it sounds you will be getting good use out of.

Canadian Tire at Yonge/Davenport has bikes for $100 right now. If they have the same bikes at the Eglinton/Laird location go get it there... CT does have pretty crappy bikes but they are ok if they are put together properly, and the people who work at Eglinton/Laird know what they are doing (I used to work for CT).

[TenzoR]

Anyone recommend a pump?

[Aj23]

Would the costco infinity bike from the costco coupons hot deal thread be good for $139.99?

[Oni-kun]

Would the costco infinity bike from the costco coupons hot deal thread be good for $139.99?

No. Either take our advice our leave it. You're not gonna find some 100something dollar bike and have any of us agree that its a good bike. Just either go buy a *mart bike or get a decent one. Stop asking about those sub 200 bikes that are all crap.

[Aj23]

Here is a Giant Boulder

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/684797508.html

how does it compare to this Giant Boulder Se bike?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/yrk/bik/661532471.html

But I was hoping to still stay under $250 with some lights and a lock...guess not. What price should I try and get it for (if it is any good)? But by the pic, the first bike looks to small...I'll contact the seller to see.

EDIT: Compare to this as well (but used at around the same price as the ones above.

http://www.silentsports.com/store/product/15988/2008-Norco-Mountaineer-12.5/

[Kasakato]

The SE has upgraded parts, get it if you can afford it.

The first link appears to be an 07, at $250 its reasonable, however $225-250 seems more fair to me. The second is an 06 SE, it was bought used/old, $200-225 is fair. The current Boulder goes for $300, the SE is $350.

The Norco you linked is a solid bike. Other than being slightly heavy at 32lbs, its fairly solid.

[Aj23]

The guy replied to my message about the $250 bike, he said price is firm....should I still look into it? Is it worth the money over the rest? And would it be better than a trek 3700 or comparable to a trek 4500?

[Kasakato]

Check to confirm the condition of the bike, the model year, and ask about any receipt/service plans included. $250 is not a great deal, however its not exactly bad.

The Trek 3700 is the equivalent of the Boulder SE. Its a comparable model with comparable parts. I would choose which ever one is cheaper in your case. The 4500 has a bunch of upgraded parts, however its likely not worth it if your just starting out. It can be compared to the Giant Rincon, one of my favourite bikes.

[AzN_RiverdaleCI]

omg so mad, someone stole my Specialized Allez.

but its partly my fault since i used a ****** cable lock cause I was rushing I didnt have time to lock my Krpytonite.

The Krpytonite was locked to the fence since its heavy, no point in carrying it around.

[Aj23]

Here is something I found, would it be a good purchase?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/687063439.html

One thing I found out by contacting the seller is that it was purchased in 1999...so its pretty old, but $100 less than the Giant I was looking at and has more accessories, but then about 7-8 years older.'

BTW thanks Oni-kun for the help in the PM I sent and thanks to everyone else as well who has helped me in this thread.

[Oni-kun]

Yeah np. I just thought it was suspicious that he isn't even going to keep any of the accessories such as the lights which he could use on a new bike. It just sounds like its stolen.

[ben_liu]

Hehe, funny thing is I've been looking at all those bikes on craigslist/kijiji also. Don't worry I won't take any deals from you. I am looking more for a singlespeed.

[Kasakato]

Here is something I found, would it be a good purchase?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/687063439.html

One thing I found out by contacting the seller is that it was purchased in 1999...so its pretty old, but $100 less than the Giant I was looking at and has more accessories, but then about 7-8 years older.'

BTW thanks Oni-kun for the help in the PM I sent and thanks to everyone else as well who has helped me in this thread.

I would watch that bike, its too good to be true. Ask for a receipt and the serial.

[Aj23]

Oh and what accesories should I get for my new bike? Ill probably be getting the boulder SE...I wanted something like in the following link. Anything similar but local in scarborough and similarly priced?

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5679632&sourceid=1500000000000003260420&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=5679632#ShortReviewTitleBar

And anything good from DealExtreme for a bike?

[Kasakato]

Dont cheap out on a cycle computer as it will break on first use. Check out MEC for some decent units.

[Oni-kun]

At a minimum I would definitely at least pick one of these up.

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444177 4359&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302692895&bmUID=1211259328431

Read about how using just reflectors don't work here:
http://sheldonbrown.com/reflectors.html

In short they only work when the car's headlights are first of all functioning and shining at your reflectors at a specific angle.

I personally picked up this http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444262 3127&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302692895&bmUID=1211259438608

You can see what the planet bike superflasher looks like from behind here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1oDPdqpoLM

DEFINITELY get something to make yourself more visible. Such as those reflective bands and such for either your arm or attach it to your bag.

I personally have one of those 3m high reflective safety bands to the back of my backpack, that first light i showed you, and a MEC turtle light on my backpack AND the planet bike superflasher.

But with just the superflasher you look like an ambulance or something from 100-200m away and people slow DOWN cuz they don't know what you are.

Oh and get a helmet and cycling gloves (saves you from numbness)

[Aj23]

Dont cheap out on a cycle computer as it will break on first use. Check out MEC for some decent units.

Any certain product recommendations? How much would something similar to that unit cost?

And thanks Oni-kun, Ill check that stuff out.

[Aj23]

Just a question from an observation I made while checking out bikes, why do some bikes have covers on the front suspension while others don't? I find the bike looks much more attractive without the covers, but do these make a difference or can I just rip them off If I get a bike that has them?

[Oni-kun]

That I don't know but I'm guessing its just aesthetics. And maybe the cover keeps some dirt out.

[Kasakato]

Just a question from an observation I made while checking out bikes, why do some bikes have covers on the front suspension while others don't? I find the bike looks much more attractive without the covers, but do these make a difference or can I just rip them off If I get a bike that has them?

Its more so to keep dust out of the forks. As some lubes are slightly sticky, dust will easily attach and grind down the forks.

[Aj23]

The deal I had on an 07 Boulder SE for $200 fell through because it was slightly to small. Can anyone recommend a Bike shop where I can get a 06/07 Giant Boulder/ Boulder SE at a good price? Or even any good bike at maybe $200 plus tax? BTW, I am in scarborough, but close to pickering so it can be a store there as well.

[ben_liu]

The deal I had on an 07 Boulder SE for $200 fell through because it was slightly to small. Can anyone recommend a Bike shop where I can get a 06/07 Giant Boulder/ Boulder SE at a good price? Or even any good bike at maybe $200 plus tax? BTW, I am in scarborough, but close to pickering so it can be a store there as well.

You won't be able to.

[Oni-kun]

How small is too small? When you stood ontop of the tube was the top tube really low? Its supposed to be a few cm below your balls. Anyway just cough up the 300 or so and get a new one. You can purchase 07's I think at silent sports. But they're up near yonge and steeles.

[ZenOps]

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=47264

How about this one? Its advertised as $199.99 starting Wednesday. Its advertised as an aluminum frame with front suspension and Altus rear derailler.

No way I would by a sub-$200 dual suspension. 25% of your pedalling power is probably going to be eaten up right away.

[termi]

this is on sale at londondrugs, 200$.
http://www.londondrugs.com/Cultures/en-US/Product+Detail/Everything.htm?CatalogNavigationBreadCrumbs=Everyt hing;Everything;Sports%20Equipment;Bicycles;Kawasa ki%2026-inch%20Vector%20Mountain%20Bike&CS_Catalog=Everything&CS_RootCategory=Everything&CS_Category=Bicycles&CS_ProductID=2827749&ProductTab=3

[ben_liu]

Here is an 06 Boulder SE..

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-06-19-giant-boulder-se-W0QQAdIdZ53450165

[Kasakato]

this is on sale at londondrugs, 200$.
http://www.londondrugs.com/Cultures/en-US/Product+Detail/Everything.htm?CatalogNavigationBreadCrumbs=Everyt hing;Everything;Sports%20Equipment;Bicycles;Kawasa ki%2026-inch%20Vector%20Mountain%20Bike&CS_Catalog=Everything&CS_RootCategory=Everything&CS_Category=Bicycles&CS_ProductID=2827749&ProductTab=3

Its garbage.

[Oni-kun]

Here is an 06 Boulder SE..

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-06-19-giant-boulder-se-W0QQAdIdZ53450165

This looks like a good deal.

And I agree that the Kawasaki at london drugs is most definitely garbage.

[Aj23]

any good compared to the boulder 06 se that went for a little more or should I wait a bit more for a better deal?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/722390878.html

[Stock R]

http://www.sportchek.ca/sportchek/do/style?menuId=231&styleId=47264

How about this one? Its advertised as $199.99 starting Wednesday. Its advertised as an aluminum frame with front suspension and Altus rear derailler.


I went to Sport Chek yesterday to check out their inventory of bikes for the RFD n00b bikers and that's exactly the bike that caught my eye. I was just about to suggest it to the people who were interested in the K2 Zed 1.3.

The Diamond back looked like it was decently designed. Shimano cranks, Acera rear derailleur, and what looked like Altus EF-50 shifters/brake level combos. So the basic drivetrain parts looked good for entry level. The tires and v-brakes were no name but I wouldn't worry about them too much.

Definitely Stock R's Under $200 Sport Chek pick.

[Jyeatbvg69]

any good compared to the boulder 06 se that went for a little more or should I wait a bit more for a better deal?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/722390878.html

you know you can get this bike at canadian tire for like $160 right? I used to work at Cantire, and their bikes are no where near top of the line, but better for beginners and commuters. Cantire bikes like this raleigh are great for intermediate riding, but nothing more.

[Aj23]

Any good deals around for under $200?

[Stock R]

Any good deals around for under $200?

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6874996&postcount=50

It's not HAWT but it's decent if you're looking for a bike.

[Aj23]

Here is something else I was looking at on craigslist...

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/724833016.html

[Kasakato]

Here is something else I was looking at on craigslist...

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/724833016.html

Without an actual manufacturing name and model, its really impossible to say. The above CK bike has decent components, but a crappy frame. The thing weights 40lbs+. :o

[bpworker]

I went to Sport Chek yesterday to check out their inventory of bikes for the RFD n00b bikers and that's exactly the bike that caught my eye. I was just about to suggest it to the people who were interested in the K2 Zed 1.3.

The Diamond back looked like it was decently designed. Shimano cranks, Acera rear derailleur, and what looked like Altus EF-50 shifters/brake level combos. So the basic drivetrain parts looked good for entry level. The tires and v-brakes were no name but I wouldn't worry about them too much.

Definitely Stock R's Under $200 Sport Chek pick.

Must be a popular item, can't seem to find the 19.5" size from Niagara to Ottawa according to store clerks I've talked with. Have to keep checking with the I guess.

[Stock R]

Must be a popular item, can't seem to find the 19.5" size from Niagara to Ottawa according to store clerks I've talked with. Have to keep checking with the I guess.

I'll take a peek for you if I swing by the Sport Cheks around here in Ottawa. Last time I checked the Orleans store, there were about 4-5 of them, i'm not sure on the size though. First glance would suggest 17.5". I may be wrong.

[laser7500]

Something worth looking into are the police auctions.

I wanted a project bike, so I got one that was in decent shape but was "debranded" (actually, just painted over - probably stolen and painted to hide, then confiscated) from the Toronto police auctions off of ebay. Got it for $60, brought it home and sanded off the really bad paint job so I could paint it over. Turns out, underneath the tan paint, it was a Peugeot.

Repainted it, still fixing it up, but for a total cost of $90 for bike, tax, paint and other supplies, not a bad purchase.

[Stock R]

Something worth looking into are the police auctions.


I've checked out a few Crown Auctions here in Ottawa before. They were only selling the stolen bikes in lots (10bikes+). The police bikes were sold individually (JAMIS) but $$$. Not worth it.

These auctions are YMMV of course.

[akt921]

Any recommendation of bike shop in Markham? my budget is $400 max preferred new over used(will consider if condition is good).

[Oni-kun]

There are no good bike stores in markham. The cycle path they have near hwy7 and main street sucks. Poor selection and bikes look like they've been collecting dust forever.

Try looking here for other ones in the city. http://www.tbn.ca/retailer/rtdb/at.htm

[Aj23]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Norco-Screamer-DS-Mountain-Bike-Police-Auctions_W0QQitemZ350070623502QQihZ022QQcategoryZ2 904QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphoto hosting

Any good? Or any other bike there worth looking at?

[Stock R]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Norco-Screamer-DS-Mountain-Bike-Police-Auctions_W0QQitemZ350070623502QQihZ022QQcategoryZ2 904QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphoto hosting

Any good? Or any other bike there worth looking at?

I would avoid it even if it's a Norco. The low end full suspension bikes from even big manufacturers are gimmicky. The frame LOOKS cool but there's not much substance behind it.

Look at the components. The Altus derailleur in the rear is on the low end of things and is crappier than the Sport Chek Diamondback. The Acera front derailleur was probably upgraded at some point. The shock isn't anything special.

For the $177 it's going for right now on a police auction, I'd definitely pass on it.

Edited: Forgot to add. Look at the seat tube position over the rear suspension. The first time you hit a bump, the shock is going to compress and the seat tube is going to slam into it...

[Aj23]

Trek 4100 seems good?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/726610049.html

But I am only 5' 6", would this be too big? If its a good bike, what price should I try and get it for? And is it better than a brand new Iron horse outlaw 1.3 from sportchek?

[Rx-87]

WAYY big, 19.5 inch frames are usually for those who are over the height of 5'8".

But it depends on your inseam height too.

I say the size you should be looking for is along 17-18 inches (generalization). Anything more and your upper body is going to be overly extended in order to grasp the handle bars as well as your riding position.

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/frame-sizing.html

heres a link for it.

[ben_liu]

Trek 4100 seems good?

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/726610049.html

But I am only 5' 6", would this be too big? If its a good bike, what price should I try and get it for? And is it better than a brand new Iron horse outlaw 1.3 from sportchek?

Great bike for the price. Way better than any bike at Sport Chek. Too bad it's a tad to big for you.

A Brand new boulder that will fit you.
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/330389/

for $275. Worth

[Aj23]

Great bike for the price. Way better than any bike at Sport Chek. Too bad it's a tad to big for you.

A Brand new boulder that will fit you.
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/330389/

for $275. Worth

Thanks, Ill look into that, and if you see any other deals, let me know

[Aj23]

The guy here offered me any of these bikes for $200 (lowest price). Are they a good deal at that price ,or if I wait, would I find better at this price point? I can get either one, but I was wondering which was better. I am leaning towards the silver one just because I like how it looks better but if the other bike has better parts and will perform better, I just might get it instead if its a good deal. And the frame size is medium, that should be 18" right?

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-2-Norco-Mountain-bikes-W0QQAdIdZ57831172

[ben_liu]

I'd get the big foot, but from the look of it, it's real old. But for $200, could be a GREAT deal.

[Aj23]

I'd get the big foot, but from the look of it, it's real old. But for $200, could be a GREAT deal.

Alright thanks, Do you think this bike could compete with the newer giant boulder/boulder se?

Owner said the bike is 4 years old

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-2-Norco-Mountain-bikes-W0QQAdIdZ57831172

[Aj23]

Alright thanks, Do you think this bike could compete with the newer giant boulder/boulder se?

Owner said the bike is 4 years old

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-2-Norco-Mountain-bikes-W0QQAdIdZ57831172

Anyone know about this bike?

[whostheboss]

what about a norco wolverine?

[Stock R]

what about a norco wolverine?

Need link and more info on your riding.