New to MTBR and am looking for a new moutain bike in the $400-$500 range. Was unaware of Ibex until I started reading forums here. The Ibex recommendations are very high from MTBR forum members. The Ibex Alpine 550 looks great for the money. How can you buy a bike like this is you haven't even been able to ride it a little bit to see if you like the riding position/posture and feel of the bike? Also, if you're going to buy mail order like this, how do you know the size frame to buy? I am 5' 7", weigh 150, and buy pants with a 30" inseam measurement. Would that indicate a 15" or 17" frame? Thanks for the advice.
How Do You Get Fitted or Choose Size?
1 - 4 of 4 Posts
Joined
·
8,196 Posts
Call Ibex
First off, welcome to the forums. Your questions are valid concerns and the same thing anyone looking to buy direct would ask. There is definitely a risk in buying direct and it's one you have to feel comfortable with. Many people will not buy direct for the fact that you can not get a test ride. If this is a must, then I'll say you should pass over buying direct and go to your LBS.
With that said, I've purchased two bikes direct (one being an Ibex) and my experiences have been excellent. The Ibex bikes have a pretty comfortable geometry for most people, but that's no guarantee you will feel the same. The best thing to do is call Ibex directly and talk to one of their reps. There's a chance you'll even get the owner, Jack to pick up the phone when you call. They will ask about your measurements and what model bike you're considering and they will make a recommendation based on that information. Historically, they have done an excellent job in sizing. I have similar inseam and if I had to guess, you're looking at a 15" frame, but please don't use my guess as a definite recommendation. Call Ibex. They will make the proper recommendation.
Best wishes in choosing your bike. The 550 is an excellent choice.
Bob
First off, welcome to the forums. Your questions are valid concerns and the same thing anyone looking to buy direct would ask. There is definitely a risk in buying direct and it's one you have to feel comfortable with. Many people will not buy direct for the fact that you can not get a test ride. If this is a must, then I'll say you should pass over buying direct and go to your LBS.
With that said, I've purchased two bikes direct (one being an Ibex) and my experiences have been excellent. The Ibex bikes have a pretty comfortable geometry for most people, but that's no guarantee you will feel the same. The best thing to do is call Ibex directly and talk to one of their reps. There's a chance you'll even get the owner, Jack to pick up the phone when you call. They will ask about your measurements and what model bike you're considering and they will make a recommendation based on that information. Historically, they have done an excellent job in sizing. I have similar inseam and if I had to guess, you're looking at a 15" frame, but please don't use my guess as a definite recommendation. Call Ibex. They will make the proper recommendation.
Best wishes in choosing your bike. The 550 is an excellent choice.
Bob
Havanai,
.................:rant: ..WELCOME to the FORUMs...:cornut:
.....................
Iam an ALP rider and FWIW Iam a 32" inseam..Jack and I talked last year and came to the conclusion that the 17' was suited for me..:yesnod: This turned out to be the cat's meow........(5' 10.5")..Iam totally happy with my ALP..:thumbsup:
So as Bob suggested give IBEX a call..Their a great lot to deal with..
I hope we get the chance to Wecome you into the IBEX :band:
Jake Pay, POWERED by SRAM Here...:ihih::yesnod::smilewinkgrin::winker::lol:
.................:rant: ..WELCOME to the FORUMs...:cornut:
.....................Iam an ALP rider and FWIW Iam a 32" inseam..Jack and I talked last year and came to the conclusion that the 17' was suited for me..:yesnod: This turned out to be the cat's meow........(5' 10.5")..Iam totally happy with my ALP..:thumbsup:
So as Bob suggested give IBEX a call..Their a great lot to deal with..
I hope we get the chance to Wecome you into the IBEX :band:
Jake Pay, POWERED by SRAM Here...:ihih::yesnod::smilewinkgrin::winker::lol:
I'm 5'9" with pretty short legs and ride 17" Alpine. As I remember, Ibex would recommend 17" for those over 5'5". My wife is 5'5" and she needs 15". My guess is that you are on the border. The best is to check with them via email or on the phone.
http://www.ibexbikes.com/Bikes/2004/ALP-550-Specs.html
http://www.ibexbikes.com/Bikes/2004/ALP-550-Specs.html
1 - 4 of 4 Posts
