what is more important for climbing?

[Irulan]

Also, if you can, rent a like-bike to the ones you are considering and take it on a trail for a day. I know that I get really nervous when I am shopping and can't really get a feel for the bike while being watched. It was TOTALLY worth it to me to rent 3 bikes on 3 consecutive weekends and take them on the same trails to find out what kind I really wanted. At $30 a day, it was an expensive investigation, but saved me from buying a bike that I wouldn't have been happy with.

Apart from that, a hardtail is a great choice, but only TITS (time in the saddle) will tell.

Wow you are lucky to have had shops that rent out nice mtbs in your area!!! I could hardly find my size to testride when I got my first one, much less rent. I've done the best with trading bikes on rides with my riding sistahs.


Back to the OP -- why the weight on climbability of the bike? That is just one component of your ride. Even the most diehard XC rider goes down as much as they go up.

[alleyoop]

Yes, I am lucky! We have a great shop that rents good bikes... and I am 5'8" and proportioned more like a man, so fitting isn't such an issue. I know that most aren't as lucky.

[Gertruda]

Hello all!

I went to other bike shop - I tried this weekend Trek 4300 WSD - I liked it... Surprisingly it was not so light (if I compare it with K2 Ridgeline). Still, very nice. Will check a store with Specialized ones this week or weekend. Then will decide...

And funny thing - they do have a lifetime basic tune-ups; and REI has only first and second tune-ups (after 100-200 miles) free.

[CCinSC]

Hello all!

I went to other bike shop - I tried this weekend Trek 4300 WSD - I liked it... Surprisingly it was not so light (if I compare it with K2 Ridgeline). Still, very nice. Will check a store with Specialized ones this week or weekend. Then will decide...

And funny thing - they do have a lifetime basic tune-ups; and REI has only first and second tune-ups (after 100-200 miles) free.

I have the Trek 4300 and LOVE it! And I'm fortunate enough to have a great LBS that takes great care of me. They love to answer any questions, no matter how novice.