So, been looking to get back into the trail riding thing as its been almost 20 years, and was originally looking for a used bike. Not knowing if my size has changed with all these new frames out now a days I went to the local bike shop and had my eye on a Cannondale Cujo. Not wanting to spend the cash I rode the Giant Talon 3. I like the bike but decided to hold off at that time. Fast forward a few days I went to a different location for the same bike shop. They didn't have a Talon 3 in my size (L) but had the Specialized Pitch. It was matte black, and sold me more visually than anything else. I rode it at the shop and was pleased. As soon as I got home and rode it around the block a few times I started to second guess my purchase. Everything just felt cheap, even compared to my Trek w/ Rock Shox from 20 years ago.
So bottom line, I'm wondering whats the consensus?Bike shop will let me exchange and upgrade. Giant Talon 2, Talon 3, or maybe even a Cannondale Cujo. I'll also love any other suggestion in one of the lines they carry (Cannondale / Specialized / Giant) for under $1000, best bang for the buck and the lower the better that won't feel like a WalMart bike.
I'm in South Florida so the Cujo 3 may be cool for sandy and/or muddy trails. I'd make a sacrifice to spend the extra pennies and swing it especially if its gonna save me from upgrading down the road.
So bottom line, I'm wondering whats the consensus?Bike shop will let me exchange and upgrade. Giant Talon 2, Talon 3, or maybe even a Cannondale Cujo. I'll also love any other suggestion in one of the lines they carry (Cannondale / Specialized / Giant) for under $1000, best bang for the buck and the lower the better that won't feel like a WalMart bike.
I'm in South Florida so the Cujo 3 may be cool for sandy and/or muddy trails. I'd make a sacrifice to spend the extra pennies and swing it especially if its gonna save me from upgrading down the road.