Re: What is a "Montana Road Bike"?: Bikefanclub.com

I'm trying to figure out what type of "cross" bike geometry I should end up with and I guess that part of the problem is I don't know what normal cross geometry is compared to a road bike. I intend to use it for mixed trail and road rides (sounds like montana rides - with the occasional technical trail thrown in) as well as bad weather road rides and possibly some commuting.

I've heard many folks say that high bottom brackets for cross are an old-school concept from the days of clips and straps (apparently a clip clearance issue) - and that lower bottom brackets provide better handling. I'm also unsure about how much "slower" handling I'd need on a "cross" bike that makes it onto the dirt with some regularity. I guess the exact details would be the responsibility of the builder but I'm wondering if my idea of a frame with handling somewhere between my road bike and a cross bike (I've only tried the bianchi axis and gunnar crosshairs) would be reasonable for trail riding.

As you might have guessed, I'm not building a cross racer. I'll give cross racing a try - and if need be set up a race specific bike when/if the time comes.

Sounds like you're pretty well equipped to shed some light on this issue given your riding and building experience. On the other hand I don't want to ask for free input the likes of which normally comes at a (justified) cost to your customers. Maybe just some general feedback if you don't mind.

Post Extras