Looking for a 100 Mile Bike

NobleWan

Hi,

As part of an annual challenge this year myself and some friends are going to Cycle from Belfast to Cork over 2/3 days. I'm looking for a decent bike to do this on as a result. It'll ideally be pannier compatible, at the rear at least. I'm 5'10" so I believe I am after a 54cm frame. Had thought of a Jake the Snake if that sets the scene. If anyone has anything to offer drop me a line.

Thanks

Having done a bit of research I believe I am in the market for one of:
Ridgeback Horizon
Tifosi CK7
Kona Jake the Snake

Or something similar. Does anyone have anything like that on offer?

Thanks

DualFrontDiscs

NobleWan wrote: »

Hi,

As part of an annual challenge this year myself and some friends are going to Cycle from Belfast to Cork over 2/3 days. I'm looking for a decent bike to do this on as a result. It'll ideally be pannier compatible, at the rear at least. I'm 5'10" so I believe I am after a 54cm frame. Had thought of a Jake the Snake if that sets the scene. If anyone has anything to offer drop me a line.

Thanks

Great idea for a ride. Once you ride triumphantly into Cork, what next for the bike? Would you plan to use it for your commute? A practical way of getting around instead of other transport? Take up cycling as an 'activity'? Polish it up and mount it over your fireplace?

These will all influence your decision.

DFD*

*DamnedFineDetails.

NobleWan

Good question DFD. At present I'm on a Rock Hopper and love this bike. I bought it as a capable all rounder and so far in the training (45 milers) it has proven to be up to the challenge. I changed the forks to rigids, but I'd really like something along the lines of a JTS. As for afterwards I'd like the option of a marketable bike that I would be able to pass on, but knowing me I'll probably hang on to it and go for occasional smaller challenges (circa 70 mile one day jobs).

blorg

The main issue you would have with a Kona Jake the Snake is the 46/36 ratio on the front which is not ideal for loaded touring. You would also need to change the tyres but that is an easy fix. To be honest I would tend to go for a triple on a touring bike for maximum flexibility. If the touring is to be light you would get away with a standard compact (50/34) - in this case I would consider an audax bike.

To be honest for a cycle like that you could even do it on a road bike with a saddle bag, I have done similar myself. 2/3 days is not very long.

DualFrontDiscs

Three excerpts and links from JTS reviews.

Given the proposed use, I would read the first two as being negative and the third as being broadly positive.

NB. Review refers to different versions of the JTS (different years).

Not for serious touring. Not for ultra serious trails unless you love going slow or walking. The chainstays are too short for real rack/pannier setup. Steel is for touring, aluminum is for racing and/or training. Not a ton of tire clearance.

Weaknesses:
Weight (it's close to 22lbs), stiff frame makes for not-so-plush rides for those who (like me) enjoy centuries. Also, the steerer tube is cut a bit short, so if you like a really upright position, you have to change the stem for one with more rise.

"Solid 'crosser with urban and touring crossover potential "

DFD*

*DoneFindingDetails.

CramCycle

NobleWan wrote: »

Tifosi CK7

Good Bike?