What's the spec on this sound like?

[The Jogger]

Hi, I've been looking for my new bike and like the look of this one
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/...mb_33980-33957-106165_parentcategoryrn_124468
Does the spec sound ok, I'll be using it on road, paths and the odd bridleway, mostly for commuting and cross training.

 

[fossyant]

They are OK - look pretty smart. And a good spec !

 

[Paulus]

Seems quite good for £399.

 

[The Jogger]

I will go and try it out then, thanks, any other recommendations......very welcome...

 

[alecstilleyedye]

just beware halfords' spanner monkies, if you have a decent lbs that does repairs, get them to fix anything that might need doing. if the bike is set up by an idiot, it'll get fixed by one too…

nice bike though. great at the price.

 

[Mr Pig]

I thought about getting a bike from Halfords, I'm looking for a new one too, but I've decided against it.

Two reasons really. Firstly, I don't think you could get the same range of bikes as you could get from a specialist bike shop. Secondly, Halfords bike mechanics are a real hit and a miss, some being hopeless!

I spoke to a young guy working in halfords on Tuesday, he's a keep cyclist who's just started working there. He said the two guys who worked there before him didn't give a stuff and just threw bikes together. If someone had a problem with a bike they'd try to talk them into buying a new bike rather than fixing it!

At the end of the day it's a motor spares shop that sells bikes. You're just not going to get the same level of service you'd get from a shop that lives and breathes bikes and nothing else.

As for that bike in question, I have no idea. But at a good bike shop you'll get more choice, and better advice.

 

[The Jogger]

I just had a look at that MP, nice bike, very nice bike. Head spins

 

[Mr Pig]

..the Specialized Sirrus, which is the same price and an excellent bike.

And has Flack Jacket tyres, I'm sold! ;0)

The Scott Speedsters also look nice. But I've never even heard of Boardman, they could be better for all I know. I'd ask in a specialist bike shop if it were me ;0)

 

[giant man]

The only problem with this deal is Halfords are selling it, so ime proceed with caution and don't let them service it, if they build it up adequately that is.

 

[bonj2]

The Boardman bikes get a pretty good right-up.

I still can't get used to the strange tube profile on them, but that's just aesthetic.

Compare it with this...

http://www.bikescene.co.uk/moreinfo.php?variation=1266&sale=0

..the Specialized Sirrus, which is the same price and an excellent bike.

do away with the 'suspension' seat post though.