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So my missus is wanting to get back into riding again after a fairly long break. Wanting to get something nice for less than 2k. Probably a 14/15" frame with some lightweight bits and bobs. 100 mm travel more than enough. I'm currently thinking kona kula or orange r8. Anything else I should look at. She's no fan of cannondale btw
Merlin rocklobster 853
If you're spending that much why not get something boingy? You'd get 1p change from one of these
[url= http://www.leisurewheels.co.uk/products.php?plid=m1b0s24p8869 ]boingy good fun[/url]
My beloved (who I'm guessing is about the same height)has the earlier model and its a fantastic bike
If she's little I'd avoid steel as personally I don't think there's any advantage for the weight penalty. Kinesis do a lovely little women's specific frame (KM-210L or new 220L). I used to have one and the geometry was spot on for me (5'3") and it rode beautifully. Built it up to be under 21lb (with kcnc kit, light wheels and SIDs) for approx. £1400 too! Would still have it had it not been nicked!
I think the Merlin's are quite short in the top tube so it could be a winner.
XTR and DT swiss fork ok?
http://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=2058
Or for about £200 over budget you can get a carbon frame, sids, and xo (with xx cassette).
http://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?b=2061
I have a small bfe, might be overkill but the Soul is the same geom, it's the only small frame I have found that fits my 27inch inside leg comfortably..
Not a ht but giant do the anthem x womens in a 14.5"...good time to pick up an end of year bargain as they'll be plenty off the £2k rrp.
My Mrs has a 15" merlin malt 4 and she's 5'1". With a 100mm fork there's an optical illusion that it's too long in the leg, because her saddle is just below the headset height. But the TT works well for her having now seen some good photos of her riding it in "attack mode", it looks like a spot on fit.
Giant XTC ? Mines got 120mm Recons on it and I love it 😀
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I built up a bike on a budget based on a 14" On-One Scandal rollin chassis package for my partner. I managed the whole build on just over £600 so you could knock up something really nice on your budget (or save a bit).
My partner's 5'4" and a 14" Scandal and 70mm stem gives her a faily upright riding position. I'd have though a Scandal is worth a look, but the Orange R8 does look lovely!