ok, bit of a boring thread i know, it is a November Sunday…
i've never had or even ridden a sub 30lb mtn bike. no matter how you look at it, weight is made out to be a very big deal in everything i see or hear, or read about our beloved tools in this great sport. the opposing view is that your 33lb AM bike is more stable at speed, has greater rolling momentum and feels more solid. like some of you, i think about the next bike, and for me, the next bike will be something i see lasting much longer than 2-3 years (no seriously), and i'm willing to pay a premium for a higher end steed. but there is a limit, and i'm just not an elite rider and won't pay for the absolute cutting edge.
i'm not sure myself where this is going, but i guess i'm wondering how much more enjoyment does one get out of a bike that is 2-3 pounds less, if all things else are equal (ie, considering that the bike choice itself, type, make, model, fit, is optimized for the rider)
you may get a quality aluminum bike from one brand and pay a good 3500 bones. the same brand may offer the same bike in carbon and higher end spec for 6500. the carbon bike may be slightly stiffer, and weigh 2-3 pounds less (at best). i know, i know, only the buyer knows the value of his or her dollar, but the question remains- does the lighter bike offer a way better riding experience? i ask because i have no idea, i've never had the pleasure of trying this kind of bike! next year i'm thinking of going to Moab for vacation during Outerbike. it may be the best opportunity to help me answer those questions, but please do wax philosophic here, if you're so inclined….