â¬2300 in Hollingsworths, though less with the Raleigh to Work scheme. I'm not a serious mountain-biker though would head out to Ballinastoe most weekends for a few hours. I know it's the 2009 model, but should I be bothered about that and do you think this is a good bike or could I do better?
personal option -I think there is better value to be found out there
the geometry and suspension travel is geared for more heavy mountain use, downhilling and jumps. the spec on the bike isn't very high despite the highish price tag
Specialised use a lot of own brand items rather than known manufacturers
the gears & mech are near entry level spec
If you're used to ballinastoe and aren't planning to suddenly start jumping off large drop offs , i would suggest you look for a bike that has (full sus if you want it) 100mm travel forks and a longer type geometry than the stumpjumper.
The Specialised Epic is an excellent bike to consider as an alternative
Visit www.bikeradar.com and go through the bike reviews
Dont rush into it as it pays to work out which bike and bike size is best for you
Thanks for the feedback all. I've received the quote for the bike so that I can organise the RTW thing, but haven't put any money down as yet so open to suggestions, as above. Sorry OZ, that bike looks class but it's too small as I'm 6'4" and need a large frame.
Sorry Oldschool, I'm going to have to disagree. That bike would be perfect for ballinastoe. Slx is hardly entry level, elixers are savage brakes and these days specialized's warranty is second to none. There own brand finishing kit is strong and light , they did have a few issues a couple of yeards ago with inhouse suspension but that is pretty much resolved.
I have ridden these bikes and they are brilliant for the likes of ballinastoe and yet not restricting you to there pretty much a do almost anything xc bike. Better value around second hand but with the warranty and btw Scheme you can't go wrong.
you've entered a minefield of opinions here Simolloy..the Stumpjumper is an XC/Sunday spin bike. Perfect for bating around Ballinastoe..it doesn't matter what the year is once the Shop/manufacturer gives you an excellent warranty.
It is not suitable for jumping/downhilling or anything extreme unless you are a very experienced rider who no longer cares if he/she wrecks her bike.
As for groupsets, everything these days is good quality. I have SLX on my Carbon XC race bike FFS.
The weight of the bike, how its set up for you and how it feels under you when you are riding is far more important than whether it is shiny ,expensive or the 55th made.
All components are good once they are maintained.
For a weekend warrior you can't go wrong with a Stumpjumper.
See if you can spec a Trance from your LBS and compare the two..Giants warranty is legendary.
Richie