Hybrid or Cyclocross? -- from a newbie

[Quillfred]

Hi trailrunner

For another cylocross manufactor consider Redline. I don't know about dealers in your area but you can search on the website. I have an 04 Conquest Pro which I bought used for a good price. They are a great bike for the $ especially if you can find them on sale somewhere.

I bought mine so I can still commute in the winter. It has permanent fenders and I added a rack as it has drop-outs. I can and will add disc brakes before the winter rolls around again. The brakes are ok but I live in a rainy climate on a hill and want better stopping power.

Another nice feature of cyclocross bikes is that they have a fat fork. This allows more tire clearance. I actually bought it with knobby tires but added slicks. I liked the model I bought as it has the same nice gearing - 105s as my trusty road bike. It is also aluminum and very light weight. Have fun and try out as many bikes as you can.

Quillfred

[trailrunner]

Awesome! Well, now that I'm sufficiently stoked, I'm heading over to the LBS to see what they've got. I've decided if a stock frame will be just fine for me, I'll buy one and build it up. If not, I'll go full custom.

I will have to keep everyone posted on my bike adventure....