MTB For Rando Bike-Packing Routes

Cannondale Trail 29'er SL4 - $1000 retail

Here are a few of the bikes I've been researching. They all are 29'ers, have 9 speeds, hydraulic brakes and are the lower end of a series. The same frame is used in much more expensive bikes, the difference being in the components. Looks like one of the main differences is in the front suspension. Of course they all have lockout forks, some have rebound adjustment. Some of these seem real heavy... around 32-35 lbs! Wheels and tires make up a whole lot of this weight. Even going tubeless would save over 1 lb. (2x220gm).

My present thinking is of getting the basic good framed bike, then changing out components as I went along riding and testing things out. As long as you get the same frame as the much more expensive and upgraded models in a series, there is daylight ahead.

2013 Felt Nine60 - $1029 retail

Right now the Cannondale and the Felt looks good. I may be able to get these at a BIG savings. The Trail 29'er SL4 by C'dale has a 1.5" steerer tube on the fork. This could be a problem upgrading. Would need a adapter bearing set to convert to basic 1.125 steerers on common replacement forks.

After testing on several future Rando Route trails, I may opt for a solid front fork. Two which come to mind are the Salso Fargo fork and the Surly Ogre fork. Both have a whole bunch of braze-ons and can handle tires up to 29 x 2.5". Both around $100 retail. Another good future option.

Of course, in additon to the basic bike, more money would have to be thrown at the project: Bikepacking stuff from racks, bags, bottles, holders, etc. Whew!

Motobecane 29'er - $699 - online

Motobecane Phantom 29'er - $699 delivered

Gt Avalanche 3 Hydr. - $585 -Perf bikes