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Hi, I’ve not bought a new mtb for around 15 years. I did a lot of trail riding back in the day and still have my ‘vintage’ Specialized Rockhopper. I’m about to pull the trigger on a new bike and start up trail riding again.
I’m a bit limited on choice as all bike stock seems to have been purchased and my local bike shops are empty. I have narrowed it down to either a Whyte T140 or Specialized Stumpjumper Comp. I’m looking for opinions on both and whether or not there is something else I should be considering.
Thanks in advance, Mark
No experience of those bikes but what type of stuff are you going to ride.
I used to do the Marin Trail (has a different name now), Lady Bower Reservoir, various Peak District Trails, Snowdon, Old Man of Coniston and a few other places I can’t remember around the North West. I intend to do similar (probably not the mountains) but also some easy stuff with the kids.
I’d look a 29er personally with around 120-130mm travel, so something more like the Whyte S120 than T140. I had a T130 and liked it, but 29ers are faster and more efficient. Scott Spark and YT Izzo would be other good shouts.
Thanks lawman. Is there anything wrong with the Specialized as it fits what you've said, 29er and travel but you don't mention it? I think I'm going to struggle to get the Whyte as all sold. I'll check out the Scott and YT now.
I know looks shouldn't really come into it but that Scott Spark 930 looks awesome. Liking that army green colour a lot.
This is all new to me but my understanding is that the SLX group set (on the Stumpy) is above the Deore groupset on the Spark? Also, is it weird that the Spark then has an XT derailleur?
I'd just keep to one of those you can get access to in the right size and get it bought and start riding. Either of those bikes will be great on the trails. Asking on here tends to generate a massive list of bikes to prevaricate over.
This is all new to me but my understanding is that the SLX group set (on the Stumpy) is above the Deore groupset on the Spark? Also, is it weird that the Spark then has an XT derailleur?
SLX is higher up the food chain, but Deore performs awesomely by all accounts so I'd not worry on that score. XT upgrade on the rear mech is an eye-catching, but not dead expensive upgrade to prospective buyers. Looks like it works too - you noticed it!
Thanks tthew. I guess I just want to know there is nothing wrong with the Stumpy Comp because I now can't get the Whyte T140 at all but can get the Stumpy delivered on 16th Nov. No point in finding out after the event that there's something fundamentally wrong with a purchase so trying to do my research before pulling the trigger but under pressure as everything is selling out quick. I've watched pretty much every review of the Stumpy I can find on YouTube and nothing bad. All seem to say it's the perfect do it all bike.
Yes, the XT derailleur definitely caught my attention, lol.
Can't do YT on 0% payments. I have the money but when 0% is offered it just makes more sense to pay off over time and keep the cash. Again, this bike looks awesome and they can ship to me in 48 hours. Can't see any UK suppliers so guess they are only direct order from manufacturer?
So I pulled the trigger on the Stumpy and collect shortly after 16th. Cue a hundred people on the forum telling me I shouldn’t have bought a Specialized because......
Sweet. Get some pics up of your first rides 👍
I'm not going to be one of the hundred. On the description of the riding you do it should be ideal for it. For every one on here who says you shouldn't have bought one there are thousands of happy riders who just get on with it.
As above get some pics up when you get it.
Yeah, will get some images up for sure. Need to arrange where to go for first proper outing now. Wahoo!
I think the Stumpy will be perfect.... sod what anyone else thinks/says just enjoy getting it filthy.
I think the Stumpy will be perfect…. sod what anyone else thinks/says just enjoy getting it filthy.
@choppersquad Thanks. I'm looking into where to take it now for first outing. Feels like waiting for Christmas Day to come!!
Going from the old vintage to the new modern is going to totally blow you away and you'll be kicking yourself for not doing it sooner.
Enjoy 🙂
Because thats what its all about.
Is there a bad bike these day ? Enjoy your ride and get out there ( I’m punting around in an old 5 26” and love the buzz of just getting out )
Not be long before your doing this on it
Not be long before your doing this on it
@Tracey Lol, I hope so!! But I won't be doing anything if I don't decide on pedals and shoes soon!! Roof bars came today so at least I'll be able to bring the bike home from the store.
Need to start planning that first ride!!