Hey
Have been meaning to get out for a ride with you guys for ages - but managed to break my ankle last week so that ride is going to have to wait for a while!
It's going to be a long 6 weeks for me - no bike, no walking the dog and no work, so I've decided that the best way to keep myself occupied is to search for a new bike... and that's where I'd be grateful for some advice from you guys.
It will probably be 6 months before my ankle is up to proper FR / DH (poor Voltage, locked in the garage and neglected). So in the meantime, I need to get something more XC/AM focused so I can build my fitness / strength back up.
My recovery goal is to go to Spain for a XC/AM week with Singletrack Safari in mid October so whatever I get has to be up to that... It's gotta be a full bouncer and I'm more bothered about it being good on the descents than the climbs - although that said, the easier it climbs the better! The rest of the time I'll be using it locally (Broxbourne, Epping) and also for some trail centre trips (Coed y Brenin, Cannock Chase).
I only need to get a frame and shock - and I'm not fussed whether it's brand new or second hand. Haven't really set a budget yet...will decide how much I want to spend when I know what my options are... Think my main problem with going 2nd hand will be getting something small enough to fit me, there doesn't seem to be that many XS frames about.
What do you suggest then guys, any advice much appreciated!
