Messages

16

Gear Talk / heron frames

« on: January 19, 2007, 04:17:40 pm »

I found something else for you that may take a little time but you can look at a lot of custom steel frames for touring and see the pricing.  It is the web addresses of most of the US and foreign custom frame builders. http://www.sandsmachine.com/fbplist.htm
Good Luck!

17

Gear Talk / heron frames

« on: January 19, 2007, 04:12:18 pm »

Just a suggestion.  Contact Troy Courtney at www.cccycles.com  He can build you a lugged steel  touring cycle much more Custom than Heron (which is very good I will admit)for several hundred dollars less than a Wayfarer.  Also if you are looking at something light and sporty suitable for light touring, consider Heron's Rally over the Wayfarer.

Cheers!

Ron

18

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 10, 2007, 09:04:53 pm »

Thanks, James.  If I get there, I'll have to take you up on that.  My plans this summer are for a short two week tour around the Grand Canyon's south rim.

It's good to hear the details of the Koga's ride.  In looking at both bikes it is fairly obvious that they would be dependable and carry bags well.  WHat you never know is which one has the better ride.  The tracking you mentioned says a lot.

19

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 09, 2007, 12:11:30 pm »

You're right of course.  I know it seems like a case of why bother.  The Nomad is a great bike from what I can see, I have never owned one, but have had Cannondales and Treks.

I guess I got caught up with the build your bike nonsense on the Koga website.  I have always liked the Dutch and German Expedition frame styles.

More than a few have also told me that the Koga has a much nicer ride than the Nomad once the luggage is removed.

20

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 08, 2007, 09:11:09 pm »

Trail Patrol-

Thanks for the response.  I guess I was wanting to see a wider opinion on the Koga which seems to be a real mystery.  There is Tim's site which speaks to the durability and the accessories needed for long expeditions.  The ride is an unknown.  I can't seem to find out if it feels heavy, or if it is actually responsive, oversize tubes and all.  

It seems as if few people have experience with the bike.  I know I love the frame style, but I am thinking that Koga are not dialed into the US market very well and service may be lacking.

21

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 08, 2007, 09:15:20 am »

It's good to know this.  I read somewhere that someone Stateside purchased a World Traveller and had some trouble with the set up.  The service was so bad he got rid of the bike.  Too bad, because aside from the aluminum frame, the Koga should be up to the task.  It's wearing me out trying to even find out how it rides so I can imagine the issues I might have after I own one.

I think I'll stick with the Nomad.  Thanks everyone for the input and I'll post some pics when I build it!

22

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 07, 2007, 01:11:15 pm »

I went there first and their site is sort of how I became interested. I can't help but feel that Koga's sponsorship carries influence with the oppinions they publish.  I love the look of the bike.  It does appear heavy and I wonder if it would sort of feel like a Clydesdale unladen as well.

The Nomad is probably a bit more sprightly and just as able to carry heavy loads.  It is more expensive so if a few folks had real positive riding experiences with the Koga, I would lean towards it on the issue of price.

23

General Discussion / Thorn Vs. Koga

« on: March 06, 2007, 11:22:05 pm »

Well I have a small deposit on a derailleur equipped Thorn Nomad. Last week, I was looking at the "fully loaded touring bikes on tour" site and observed a black Koga World Traveller. I loved the look of the frame even though I prefer steel.

I know everything about the Nomad and nothing about the World Traveller.

 Is there anyone out there who can tell me (with experience) more about the ride of the Koga? I am having last minute second thoughts and since these bikes are expensive, I want to make sure I choose the best one.

Cheers!