[akpirate]

I'm looking at a couple of SS bikes for next season. I know its still early to be looking at the '11 line up, but I'm looking at the new Rig GF/ trek bike or perhaps a Kona unit based on another guy who has one and strongly recommends it.

One thing that interests me all things considered is how wide of a tire I could possible mount on said bike for winter riding. Which SS 29er frame do you know of now that has pretty good tire clearance for such a thing? or they all about the same?

I ask because I haven't bought a 'new' bike in some time and don't exactly keep up with this kind of stuff on a year to year basis.

 

[p nut]

How much are you looking to spend? Do you care about frame material? Want a complete bike or build?

From what I remember, Rig doesn't have that great of tire clearance. I believe Surly Karate Monkey's got enough room for 2.5's. I've got 2.35's on my Jabberwocky and I think I should have enough room for at least 2.4, if not bigger. My wife's On One Inbred also has some good clearance (it's a 26") and the company states 2.5's should fit.

 

[akpirate]

Aluminum would be my first choice, but steel would be ok too. I'm not opposed to doing a build, but since this is my first 29er the major components like fork, wheels and tires I would probably get a better deal on if I bought a stock bike to start with. Budget would be around $1500 or so. That's all the wife might be able to stomach on a complete bike.If I were to build I'm sure that # would got to $2000

I was looking through tire options last night and was wondering who actually makes a studded winter tire for 29ers? or would a person have to go all DIY on a set of knobby mud tires and stud it themselves.

 

[Mighty Matt]

the surly karate monkey is good for fat tires. the vassago jabberwocky is just an all round good frame. the trek rig is an awesome choice, i almost bought one myself but got a bianchi muss instead. salsa selma is nice too, but a little expensive, same with the niner one 9. soma fabrications has some nice 29er frames. lot's of options if you have lot's of money. the new vassago black label stuff will be nice. later this year vassago is coming out with an aluminum 29er.

http://www.vassagocycles.com/chupacabra/

not too much info on it yet but it should be pretty sweet.

 

[ruppster]

I like my 2010 Stumpjumper SS. Could maybe fit a 2.35 in the rear. The pinch BB has not given me problems or made noises like a Rig I borrowed a few years back. I also have a Kona Unit 29, but the Stumpy is definitely a more efficient, stiffer frame.

 

[p nut]

For $1500, Rig is a good deal. I almost bought an 09 earlier this year for $990. Also check out Jamis Dragon One.