My '96 Diamondback Topanga MTB is dead, snapped clean through the frame on
the bottom RHS behind the crank, right where the mount for the mudguard
intersects. I noticed that the chain was meshing poorly and on inspection
realised that it was no longer aligned with the cluster. The bike is still
in one piece as the lhs is still holding but it must been stressed from when
the rhs let go.
I'm guessing that the frame can't be repaired or exchanged cheaply and I've
found that I can replace the whole bike new for just $290 and end up with a
much better ride.
So next bike, I've thought about it and decided that I'm happy with a MTB as
I do a few fire trails, but I want to keep the weight down as 80% is still
on the tar. I want decent brakes, really decent brakes. The topanga had
terrible brakes that pulled up in order to close around the wheel and
although it added to the excitement I just want brakes that work now.
It's going to be a hardtail, disk braked for under $1000 and scooting around
I've picked out these to look at.
GIANT Yukon $689
HARO V3 04 $699
Avanti Ridge Rider $799
Trek 04 4300 Disc - $849
Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc $849
GT Avalanche 1.0 Disc 04 - $999
Anymore that I should consider?
Any advice as to what to do with the topanga?
Thanks!