Dear MBT:
I’m wondering how bikes have gotten so much more affordable in recent years. I ask because I remember a time when dual suspension couldn’t be had for under $2 grand. I just picked up a brand spanking new Schwinn Rocket Disc for $550! Its better outfitted than my 1999 Specialized that cost five times the amount. Anyway, nice site. I’ll be stopping in regularly.
Greg Stovean

Greg:
Interesting question. The answer involves a simple understanding of economic theory. As specific components continue to rise in popularity (meaning more customers lay down cash for them) the more competitive the pricing becomes. Since the Rocket Disc happens to fall right into the meat of the popular trail bike demographic, Schwinn was able to count on reaching a wide appeal and with that, relatively high sales numbers. Also keep in mind that equipment that was cutting edge a few years back can be had for next to nothing as it nears the end of its life cycle. Purists will pay top dollar to remain on the bleeding edge of technology while yesterday’s best of the best components are bargain basement material. Enjoy your new ride and just try to imagine what components will find their way onto reasonably priced bikes in the next eight years!

Dear MBT:
How come no reviews on any GT bikes? I have been looking at an i-Drive 4.0 for light singletrack and maybe cross country racing.
Cody “lazy” Laszarr

Cody:
I know we rely upon this answer often but will force you to endure it again. Some manufacturers are more responsive about setting up bike tests than others. That being said, we can not rule out the possibility of a GT bike test in the near future. We simply haven’t heard from their PR department with the steps required to get the process underway. The i-Drive 4.0 retails for just above a grand and has proven very reliable as reported to us by our contacts who’ve spent some time on one. If you’re serious about racing, there is a carbon fiber version available for around the $3000 mark.

Dear MBT:
Liked your spot on Alafia (http://www.mountainbiketales.com/articles/noreaster0506.htm) -- I found it by mistake as well. Here was my take (Luckily, I had my C'dale with me.)
http://fattiretales.blogspot.com/2006/02/trips-biking-with-gators-in-tampa.html
Eric

Eric:
It sounds to us like you and the column’s author, John Wimberly, have enjoyed a pretty similar experience. The mere concept of biking with gators makes us grateful to have only mosquitos to worry about!

Dear MBT:
Enjoyed your fine work on the Chain Shootout: (http://www.mountainbiketales.com/reviews/chains.htm) but thought you were a little harsh on the Shimano HG-73. It came stock on my daily beater and has held up like a champ with a couple seasons of abuse logged on it. Think maybe you just had a bad one?
Timmy T

Timmy T:
Our technical editor, Rob M took the reins on that shootout and will gladly delve into a deeper explanation. Rob, take it away:
Timmy,I don't think it was merely an issue of a bad chain. In one ride alone, we had a total of 5 HG-73 breaks on 3 different chains. One broke early on, and later exploded in 2 separate places (all repaired with SRAM powerlinks), which we found strange and disconcerting. I personally broke 2 of them on my singlespeed and 1 on my trailbike last season. Over the course of last season, our testers had maybe 2 dozen HG-73 chain breaks. At that rate, I should have bought stock in SRAM (Powerlinks became a precious commodity, you see.) Conversely, our testers have run SRAM chains (even the cheap ones) for miles and miles without problems. The few Wippermans our testers use are built like tanks with their stainless construction. As for why the HG-73 doesn't seem to hold up to our abuse, I couldn't tell you that. Perhaps it's the conditions our testers ride in. Northeast fall, winter and spring weather can play hell with the strongest drivetrain components, so maybe the grit takes it's toll on this chain much more readily than most. Perhaps it's the construction of the chain itself. We noted that these chains tended to rust incredibly easily and become stiff with packed grit and grime. It could be any or all of the above.
For a dirt cheap commuter or light trail riding chain, I'd give the HG-73 a thumbs up, but it's too weak for the serious all day beatings we're accustomed to. For my money, I'm content with spending more off the bat and ensuring it's my legs that are the weak link in my drivetrain, not my chain. Remember, this is just the recommendation our testers have made. Your mileage may vary. - R.M.

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