XTC 2 (2011) Mtb frame

I bought this used frame to upgrade my bike. This is Giant's XTC race performance bike frame. A brand new 2012 model would cost approx RM1,300. Therefore I opt to go for used 2011 model since there is not much differences compare to the 2012 model.

This frame weight is less than 1.5kg which is considered under the super light category of mountain bike frames. Any lesser than that would be carbon fibre or mix of alloy and carbon.

What I learn from the seller who sold me this frame, the previous owner upgraded to carbon fibre frame.

 

In my opinion, if you are able to get a reasonable price used super light frame which is still of good condition why not? 

The balance you can use to spend on other items such as hubs, rims or a carbon handle bar.

Merida Matts Lite XT (2012)

The Matts Lite is one of Merida's top end Hardtail mountain bike. It comes with triple butted superlight alloy frame which is lighter than the Matts series. This bike below comes with almost full set of Shimano XT components except the brakes.

 This bike also comes with Fox 32 Float 100 suspension fork which cost almost RM2,000.

If you are looking for a bike that comes with most XT components, this bike could be considered as one of your choice. Just need to change the brakes to XT brakes and you will have a bike with complete XT groupset.

The price of this bike is not cheap either. It cost about RM6,100. However, the advantage of getting this bike, is you don't have to upgrade or change unless the components wear out. If you want to go higher it will carbon fiber frame and Shimano XTR groupset.

Polygon Helios 300 (2011)

While surveying some road bike. I notice this road bike by Polygon. This bike come with almost full set Shimano Tiagra 9 speed components. This bike also comes with a carbon fork which is very common even for entry level road bikes nowadays. The handle and brake angle is also positioned higher so a beginner rider don't need to bend too much. I inquired the boss and he told me this bike cost about RM2,400.

In my opinion, this is a very good price. This bike is also a step higher than the Helios 200. If you want to shift to racing from mountain bike and don't want to invest a huge amount, this bike is also worth considering other than the Helios 200. Although it is a bit expensive, you get full set of Shimano Tiagra which is one step lower than the famous Shimano 105.