Dr S wrote:
Tazio wrote:
I think there is also the fact that outside the road and XC market most people are buying FS bikes as it is affordable to get a good one now and they generally work very well. Hardtail bikes that are "boutique" will always have a market but an increasingly small one.
But there is also a growing number of people who fancy something not built by 'the man'. These modern full sussers are great indeed, but are so generic looking. Peel the stickers off and you'd be hard pressed to tell a Trek from a Giant from a Specialized. We can see here on this very forum and the increase in membership that many people are choosing to ride something a little different from time to time. Yes its partly nostagia, but also a little desire for individuality.
I also think its wrong to say the steel hardtail is dead. There's been a real rebirth over the last few years. They offer great entertainment, classic style and a great riding experience.
I actually agree with all your points Si, but the people who populate this forum are a relatively small percentage of the riding public. There is still a market for hardtails as you say but for many people it is as something they won't use on their "big rides" so they don't want to spend a lot on it. A good example being the amount of units that On One sell, cheap frames for an occasionally used fun bike. I don't think for a minute hardtails will die out but they could turn into peoples runarounds. Luckily there are companies out there still developing them and believing in them.
I for one will be sticking with them and if the lottery comes in then Chris DeKerf will be getting an e-mail from me as soon as I sober up from celebrating. Or maybe a Strangelove?

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