2011 Specialized Ariel Sport convert to MTB?

[Irulan]

Mountain bike geometry is different, too. More suited to stability on the trails.

[TigerMom]

Thank you so much for your advice and warnings.

My original LBS lowered the inner ring of the front cogs a little bit.

This helped some, but still occasionally derailed at the bottom of the hill. I now brought it to another LBS who checked out the problem and agreed that it derailed a little bit too easy. The second LBS said that they would either adjust the front derailleur or add a chain catcher/deflector.

Also, you are all correct that my hybrid does not handle mud or loose gravel well. However, most of my MTB will be on packed dirt and my hybrid seems ok on that.

Also, you all did help me confirm that MTB tires will rub on the back end of my hybrid and not fit well.

Thanks, thanks, thanks!


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2012 Specialized Amiral Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle
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[TigerMom]

An update. The second LBS shop had Paul the mechanic at La Habra Cyclery in Southern California. Paul was able to fix the problem by swapping out my front derailleur for a new one so that a chain catcher/deflector could fit. I was seriously thinking about selling my recently bought 2011 Specialized Ariel sport hybrid and buying a cheap MTB, but now, I feel more confident about riding my hybrid up a beginner trail.

Super happy today! I will definitely consider Team Estrogen's advice about buying a MTB if I do more than beginner trails.
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2012 Specialized Amiral Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[limewave]

Glad you were able to work something out!

[TigerMom]

Sorry to bother Team Estrogen with yet another question. But, this forum has been a HUGE help for a newbie like me.

Another local bike shop mentioned Cyclocross tires to turn my 2011 Specialized Ariel Sport into a "29er Mountain Bike" instead of using MTB tires (which they agreed would rub against the back frame). What do you gals think about that?

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2012 Specialized Amiral Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[MSquared]

I turned my Specialized Ariel into a mountain bike after realizing that I really liked biking on the trails. It may not be the best mountain bike, but it's been working for me so far on some decently gnarly trails. All I did was throw some Kenda Karma tires on there. 29" x 1.9" will fit. It's a squeeze, but it fits.