[mud'n'sweat]

Hey everyone. I'm looking to purchase a new steel hardtail frame and was looking for some input. I was looking at the On One Inbred, the Zion 660, Soma Groove and the Nashbar Reynolds 853 frame on sale. This bike is going to start out as an 8 speed and eventually be converted to a SS once I feel like I'm strong enough. I currently ride a Ellsworth FS that I like, but I want a more simplified hardtail for the fast buff stuff and muddy days when I don't want to gum up my pivots.

Tire clearance is a huge issue for me. I need something to accomodate a 2.25 - 2.3 rear tire. I like the Geax Sturdy 2.25 rear a lot and it is definitely larger than most any other 2.25. I know this tire just barely fits the On One and I have heard the Zion 660 has clearance issues. The Nashbar looks nice, but I'm not sure about it since I have not seen any reviews. The Inbred and the Nashbar run about $350 each and the Zion at about $250. I basically want a solid frame, that climbs well and provides good tire clearance as well as IS Disc mounts.

here is the Nashbar Frame (I'm leaning towards this one)http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?...and=&sku=17655&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=

Zione 660
http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/FR410A01-Zion+660+Frame.aspx

On One Inbred
http://pricepoint.com/detail/14576-175_ONOIN5-3-Parts-60-Frames/On-One-Inbred-Geared-Frame.htm

Soma Groove
http://pricepoint.com/detail/12916-175_SOMGM3-3-Parts-60-Frames/Soma-Groove-Mountain-Frame.htm

Thanks for your help!

 

[Yoink]

I was looking at the On one 456 and the Zion as well thanks for adding anotherone to my list(soma) haha

 

[bsyp]

I think the Nashbar frame looks best. Certainly best steel. And it's got the best specifications of any of them. No stickers either, which is a plus. Be sure to use a 10% coupon code.

Second choice would be the Soma, since the steel (Reynolds 631, though they are in the process of switching out to Tange Prestige which is comparable) is the same, though not hardened. It will be a more compliant frame, which might be a good thing. Reynolds 853 steel is stiffer.

The Zions last year/model were 853, now they are 4130 which is OK, but not great. Surlys are made of 4130. Surly is another to add to your list, though IMO the Soma is a much better frame.

The On One is DN6. Who knows what that is.

Call the mfg for clearance.

 

[FatTrackie]

Looks like the Nashbar is the best deal of the ones you listed, gotta like the orange. . .

I think the current Zion frames are way overpriced as the 4130 frame from nashbar is never over $100 and frequently less than $50!

I have seen several Soma frames around and they are built nice, but only with 631 instead of 853.

Don't forget that the one that is the right size for you is going to be the best choice, no matter what it is made of.

Hope this helps

FT

 

[Yoink]

do you think someone whos 6'2 180lbs would fit better on the 21.5? nashbar or the 19.5"?

 

[holycromoly]

there is a nashbar code around for 20% off for the next two days. would make that 853 a pretty good deal.

 

[holycromoly]

The On One is DN6. Who knows what that is.

DN6 is just their name for 4130.

What makes their 4130 different is that they have tubesets that are drawn and butted based on the different frame sizes. This is supposed to yield a better ride quality. Maybe lighter weight perhaps.

Some of the less expensives 4130 frames are either straight gauge or generic butted tube lengths that are cut down.

I ride an Inbred. Do I feel a difference? Not really. But I am a suscriber to the belief that tire choice and pressure are better factors to control ride feel.

The Inbred are nicely made frames, with touches that remind you of custom built frames: wishbone stays, sliding dropout plates, smart cable routing and a nice paint finish. Plus, they have a good warranty and you get online support here on mtbr from Mr. On-One himself, Brant. One nice policy is that you are allowed to repaint your frames without voiding the warranty.