Claud Butler Alpina - a decent budget bike??

[pieface]

Anyone had any experience of the Claud Butler Alpina?? I'm looking for a budget bike an my local shop has one in pretty cheap. The spec is as follows: Suntour XCR-D magnesium fork, Front and rear disc brakes (cable), WTB Rocket V race saddle, Kore alloy Ahead, Tioga riser handle bars and shimano alivio 24 speed gears. Anyone got any thoughts on any of those components??

[Browne]

Since you didn't list a price, it's hard to tell what kind of deal you're getting.

judging by the fork and Alivio spec'd parts, I'd say you're at about $300-$400. At that price, I think you're better off spending your money on a bike with a better fork and some good quality V-brakes. While some discs offer superior performance, budget disc brakes are usually harder to adjust, are heavier and have a more limited life span. If you spent your money on less expensive, better performing V-brakes and a little better fork, you might be happier.

Then again, when purchasing a bike, it's crucial to know what you'll use it for. And of coruse, it MUST be a good fit. A good deal on a too large, over-built bike is a bad deal for you...

If you can give me some more detail, I'd be happy to help you evaluate your options...

[pieface]

Michael, thanks for the advice. The bike is priced at £350 ($450 - $500) which I guess is a bit over priced. I have about £350 sterliong to spend and am totally new to mountain biking. I aim to use the bike for a bit of off-road, trails riding and also posibly commuting to and from work. I need a bit of go-anywhere do-everything bike to allow me check out all different types of riding and then i'll trade it in and spend a bit more in the future on something more specific. Hope this helps...

[Browne]

Oops.. didn't realize you were overseas.

My advice is to find a good shop that can size you up to the right size bike. Stay away from disc brakes at that price. Suspension isn't really even necessary, but you'll probably have to buy it, what with the way they sell bikes these days.

Look for things like
* a good wheelset.
* separate shifters/brake levers (some sell them as a combo, so if you want to upgrade you have to buy new everything)
* V-brakes
* a seat that's comfortable for you
* grips that you like

Rack mounts might be nice, as you'll use it for commuting.
If you can get 8-speed, rather than 9, it will last longer, but you'll have less parts to choose from when you upgrade.
Get good tires from the start- see if you can trade the stock ones for something lighter and more suited to your terrain.
Try to get some accessories if you don't have them, such as a pump, tube, multi-tool and patch kit. Have the shop show you how to use each thing.

I know this is a lot of info, but print it out and bring it with you to the shop. It'll help. And whatever you do, buy it from someone you trust. If you do all of the above, you're bound for a lifetime of riding!

So, if you need anymore advice, don't hesitate to ask. And write back when you get one! I want to hear all about it!

[pieface]

Michael, once again, thanks very much for the advice. I'll digest it all and make my choice. I'll write back and let you know what I buy. I can just see it now, i'll get in the shop and i'll fall in love with a full suspension, hydraulic braked beauty and before you know it, my credit card will be in their hands. I'll have to try and restrain myself and stay sensible or it'll be expensive.

Cheers, Simon.

[The Rose]

wow excellent advice mike , i wish i had someone like you to point me in the right direction when i first started. good job bro

[jp10jp]

I offer my own story. Maybe you'll find something in it for you.

I bought a Schwinn rigid frame mtb for $8 at a yard sale. Needed tires but mechanically strong and not much 'roadwear" apparent. It was perfect...to get me hooked on the offroad 'thang."

Next I educated myself on higher level bikes thru friends, mags and bike shops.

Then I bought a friend's 3 y.o. Trek 7000 hardtail. $500..........

WINNAH!!!!

I've ridden almost daily for 1 year (in August). Enjoyed it all and found the bike really tested out. I am so glad I did what I did.

I have $508 invested (plus a few upgrades) and have had the perfect ride for me all the way. I am considering a next bike now. But honestly, I am having trouble making the jump to another, because what i have is so right for me.

Good used entry level race bike is a good budget bike in my book. Good luck and I'll seeya on the singletrack.

JP

[majormadmax]

P-face (et al)

Keep in mind that the price you are quoting for the UK (£350) is about equivilent to a $300-$400 bike in the States. I am an American living in Belgium, and go over to the UK a lot; unfortunately as much as I love it there, the cost of living is shocking compared to the Continent or the States! I have found that prices are usually the same in Pounds as they are in euros or dollars (e.g. somthing that costs about $5 or €5 will be £5, which is about $8 at the current £1=$1.60 exchange rate).

The advice Michael gave you is good, the most important thing you need to be looking for is a bike that fits you. As you are new to the sport, V-brakes will serve you fine, and if you can get a decent suspension fork in the deal than it will help your riding and make longer rides more comfortable. I agree that an 8-speed with be more durable, but I wouldn't put much emphasis on grips as you can easily replace them for £5-£8. Seats aren't that expensive either, and the shop you buy the bike from may allow you to swap out the stock seat if you don't like it.

And I know how tempting it is to spend more than you want, but trust me, the more you can afford right now the better return you will get from your investment. Honestly, even another £100 will make a big difference. And don't forget to set aside some money for a helmet and gloves!

Ther suggestions would be to try and find a buddy who rides who could help you, or visit a few different shops and get different opinions on bikes. Of course some will be giving you a sales pitch, but you will probably still get some good advice and info out of them. Also see if there are any bike clubs in your area, and I would recommend buying a few mountain bike magazines to see where the sport is going there.

However, the most important thing is to find a bike you are happy with, and RIDE! I started riding my first fat tire bike in the UK over 20 years ago when I was stationed near Ipswich. The UK is great for riding, and you will get to see the country in a whole different light from a bike!

Best of luck!

[majormadmax]

Simon

Also, try starting here...

Single Track World web site (http://www.singletrackworld.com/)

Cheers! M2