I went to a LBS today

[Biciclista]

shara have you tried craigslist?

what makes one bike cost more? better components and better materials.
You could buy a walmart bike and find a loose screw on it. You'd tighten the screw and it would strip out because it was made from cheap materials.
buy a more expensive bike and this would be less likely to happen. This is true of all of the parts on a bike.

[Shara]

Thanks

I have looked at CL but I think I'm going to go for a new one with a warranty.

I think I sort of meant what would make a Giant better than the Rocky Mountain bike or vice versa. They both seem to be ok mid. brands and in a similar price range. How do I choose between them. Or the Miele even - which was a couple hundred cheaper.

[Zen]

I think that's a fair price for that bike. It has Shimano Altus and trigger shifters. The frame geometry reminds me of the Trek FX.
For me, geometry is very important. You can have the best components out there but if the bike doesn't have the right fit it's not going to be an enjoyable ride.

[blackhillsbiker]

My new Giant MTB was a closeout at one of our LBSs. The price was very good and I like knowing I have maintenance for a year and a warranty.

Deb

[Shara]

So I met a guy today that works/worked for a bike delivery service, used to work at a bike store and learned how to build bikes. Good source, eh? He found a place that sells the Kona Dew and the Kona Dew plus. And he said those would be my best bets for the area and price. Do you think there is a huge difference between the Kona Dew Plus and the regular Dew? he seemed to think so.

[blackhillsbiker]

I love my Dew Deluxe! I think the frame is the same on the 3 of them. If the Dew Plus has disc brakes you might want to consider whether that is important to you. I like not having to think about the weather/road conditions on my commute. The discs will just work. I know some Dew riders who are very happy, though. Each step up the line = better components. Decide what level you can live with. If you google Kona Dew vs Dew Plus you should get some discussions on some of the other biking forums. The Konaworld website is also helpful.

The Kona Dew geometry does make for toe overlap depending on bike frame/shoe size. I just know it's there and live with it. You should check that out on your test ride.

Deb