[in_8]

Hey everyone,
Been lurking here for awhile, just getting back into mtb-ing after more than 10 yrs with out a bike. To say I'm excited is an understatement.
I test rode a dozen or so bikes at different LBS's and settled on a budget 29er (Single Parent, just coming off workers comp......it has its drawbacks) I was completely sold on the 9er after some test rides. The few 6er's i tried were great bikes but didn't inspire confidence as well. I'm 6'1" approx 190lbs and the 9er felt so right but i'm sure i'm preaching to the choir here.
I went with the bike that felt the best for me, Trek Marlin 29er, I preferred the looks of others better but decided that at 36 yrs old i need to worry about comfort because there will be more than enough pain coming once i hit the trails. I know it has some weak components but im ok with that for now, Upgrades are fun, and I got a great deal on it. Anyway, just wanted to introduce, Looking forward to the rides and hopefully sharing some pics soon.

 

[wyatt79m]

Your gonna have fun

 

[Bucktown]

I just bought the same bike, I like it so far, thinking about any upgrades? I want to convert my Marlin to a 1x9 drive train since I live in Florida and use my bike for 50/50 commuting and trail. I am 6'0" 180 and went with the 19" frame.

 

[NC-Biker]

Welcome.

 

[in_8]

I have some ideas on upgrades, the usual, forks, pedals,tires. But i'm going to ride it hard for a little while and see what breaks or proves to be troublesome. I went with a 21" .....Im not sure yet if i made the right decision, I was tempted to go with a 19" but the LBS talked me out of it, the 21 felt huge! but comfortable. I think it is more of a perception thing, I never have felt as tall as everyone says I am. Anyone else 6'1", w/long legs? what size frame are you riding?

 

[xjbaylor]

I have some ideas on upgrades, the usual, forks, pedals,tires. But i'm going to ride it hard for a little while and see what breaks or proves to be troublesome. I went with a 21" .....Im not sure yet if i made the right decision, I was tempted to go with a 19" but the LBS talked me out of it, the 21 felt huge! but comfortable. I think it is more of a perception thing, I never have felt as tall as everyone says I am. Anyone else 6'1", w/long legs? what size frame are you riding?

The 19" is probably the size most people would recommend for your build, especially if you got the immediate sensation that the 21" was too big. You might just be a shorter stem and zero setback seatpost away from a great fitting bike.

As far as upgrades, focus on fit and contact points first. This would likely mean correct length stem, saddle, grips and pedals. These are the most affordable way to significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment. If you ever decide to sink bigger bucks into your bike, look as a good wheelset next. It will have a bigger impact that a fork (in most cases) and you will take good wheels with you to your next bike.

 

[in_8]

I appreciate your input. I'll admit i am lacking in this sort of knowledge. In my previous life i didn't pay much attention to the details of bike fit. So where exactly is the measurement difference between a 19 and 21? longer top tube and what? I attributed the "too big" feeling to the fact that it was a 29er. I rode the 19's after the 21 which might have skewed my perception. I felt comfortable riding both..... The LBS said my reach looked perfect on a 21" and thought i would be cramped on the 19". I am still waiting to take delivery of the 21" as they only had a 19" in stock. The 21" i rode was a mamba which they assured me was identical apart from component upgrades. Maybe they will allow me to reconsider when i pick it up tomorrow.

 

[Bucktown]

Like I said I am 6'0" but I only have a 5'10" wingspan, (my bball buddies call me T-rex) so I went with the 19" frame. the measurement is the length of the seat tube from the center of the crank to the top, the longer it is the further it is set back therefore stretching the bike. if you are 6'1" and have long arms than a 21" sounds about right, just ride and make adjustments until you get it dialed in, you can also change the stem and angle of your bars which could make your bike feel more like a 20" size. The very first upgrades I made were ODI lock on grips, m580 clipless pedals, a lizard skin chain stay protector and a Ritchey mtb comp saddle.

The Suntour fork on our bike is pretty crappy, but it works for now, it's heavy and ugly and the lock out doesnt fully lock as there is about an 1/8" of play when locked, I hate that! But I think I'll hold off for now and prob go tubeless and 1x9 as I live in FL.

 

[Bucktown]

 

[in_8]

Very Nice! can't wait to get mine. :thumbsup: