Zarnoff Bike Blog
4Jun/09Off

Schwinn Mesa GS Adult Mountain Bike

Outfitted with a Schwinn N-Litened Gold Label TIG welded aluminum frame with off-road, ride-tuned geometry, the Schwinn Mesa GS adult mountain bike is versatile enough for both dirt and street riding. The bike is set up with such features as an Answer/Manitou six-coil sprung travel fork with mini boots, a TruVative X-Flow 42/32/22 chain rings crankset, eight-speed Shimano EZ-Fire shifters, an SR/Suntour XCC-202 front derailleur and a Shimano Deore rear derailleur, Shimano EF-29 brake levers with Tektro linear pull brakes, and a Schwinn WTB Speed V sport saddle. The components combine to deliver a smooth, responsive riding experience and sure stopping power in a pinch. Schwinn also added a pair of water bottle mounts to keep you hydrated.pstrongSpecifications:/strongulliSize(s): S (15") M (17") L (19") XL (21") liFrame: NLitened Gold Label Custom Drawn Aluminum alloy Off-Road Ride-Tuned geometry, Zero Stack head tube, 3x gussets, sloping top tube, wishbone Epicenter seat stays, replaceable der. hanger, disc brake mount, rack and WB fittings. liFork: Rockshox J1, Aluminum lowers, Coil / MCU spring, pre-load adjust, and mini-boots, 100mm travel liCrankset: TruVativ X-Flow alloy arms, 42-32-22 Cr-Mo rings liBottom Bracket: TruVativ sealed cartridge square taper 68 x 113 w/ chainline stabilizer liPedals: ATB Resin body, Boron steel axle, Steel cage. Toe-clip adaptable. liFront Derailleur: SRAM 3.0 31.8 top pull liRear Derailleur: SRAM SX-5 liShifters: SRAM SX-4 dual trigger control liFreewheel: SRAM Power Glide 8-speed cassette 11-32 liChain: Shimano CN-IG51 liRims: Jalco double wall alloy w/ CNC "SSD" sidewalls to improve wet braking, 32H liTires: WTB 26" x 2.1" Velociraptor Front and Rear specific tread pattern. liFront Hub: JY Alloy Weather Sealed w/ alloy QR liRear Hub: JY Alloy Weather Sealed Cassette 8-speed QR, 32H liSpokes: Stainless steel 14 gauge liFront Brake: Tektro Linear Pull w/ 64mm MC pads and linear springs liRear Brake: Tektro Linear Pull w/ 64mm MC pads and linear springs liBrake Levers: Tektro all-alloy w/ forged lever and reach adjustment liHandlebar: Schwinn 6061 T6. 32 mm Rise, 5 degree bend, 620 mm wide liStem: Schwinn Ride Tuned alloy threadless,10 degree rise with forged 4-bolt front load cap. liGrips: Schwinn double density Kraton / Gel liHeadset: FPD Threadless semi-integrated Aheadset 1 1/8" liSaddle: WTB Speed V Sport w/ Comfort Zone liSeat Post: Forged Alloy Ride Tuned, micro adjust 26.8 x 350 liSeat Clamp: Alloy Low-Profile QR w/ forged clamp /ulpstrongAbout Schwinn/strongbr Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon that has been synonymous with quality and innovation. They have built some of the best-known and best loved bikes of numerous generations--Aerocycle, Paramount, Phantom, Varsity, Sting-Ray, Krate and Homegrown. Today, Schwinn continues to be a leader in the industry with innovative bikes such as the new Sting-Ray, Rocket mountain bikes, and Fastback road bikes. With a continued dedication to quality, forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America's most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation, freedom and performance to people of all ages.pstrongAssembly of the Bike:/strongbr This bike comes mostly assembled. Minor assembly is required before the bike can be used.pstrongfont color=CC6600BIGAmazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide/BIG/font/strongbrbrstrongFinding the Right Bike/strongbr To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:pstrongThe Right Ride/strongbr In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:ullistrongRoad and Racing Bikes/strong--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain. listrongMountain Bikes/strong--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine. listrongComfort/Cruiser Bikes/strong--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family. /ulpstrongThe Right Price/strongbr A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.ullistrongEntry-level/strong--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use. listrongMid-range/strong--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension. listrongHigh-end/strong--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultralightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action./ulpstrongThe Right Size/strongbr Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:ullistrongStand-over Height/strong--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height. listrongTop Tube Length/strong--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit. listrongBikes for Women/strong--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance. /ulpstrongThe Right Accessories/strongbr When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:ulliHelmet (this is a must!) liSeat pack liLock liHydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage liSpare tubes liPortable bike pump liGloves /ulp

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3Jun/09Off

Schwinn Mesa Mountain Bike

Considering that this bike costs less than most suspension forks, how can a rider on a tight budget lose. Strong enough to handle your local trails without burning a hole in your pocket, the Mesa has a generous spec that makes it the right choice for you. N'Litened Silver Label Custom Drawn and Trail Tuned aluminum Epicenter frame. Fork SR Suntour XCT Aluminum lowers, Coil Spring with friction damping, pre-load adjustment, bootless, 80mm travel Crankset Truvativ X-Flow alloy arms, 42-34-24 Cr-Mo rings Bottom Bracket Truvativ sealed cartridge square taper 68 x 113 with chainline stabilizer Pedals ATB Resin body, Boron steel axle, Steel cage. Toe-clip adaptable. Front Derailleur SRAM 3.0 31.8 top pull Rear Derailleur SRAM SX4 Shifters SRAM SX-4 dual trigger control Freewheel Shimano CS-HG30 8-speed cassette 11-32 Chain KMC Z-72 Rims Jalco double wall alloy with finished sidewalls to improve wet braking, 32H Tires Kenda Klaw XT 26" x 2.1" Front and Rear specific tread pattern. Front Hub Joy Tech Alloy Weather Sealed with alloy QR Rear Hub Joy Tech Alloy Weather Sealed QR set with Cassette 8-speed rear Spokes Stainless steel 14 gauge with brass spoke nipples Nipples Brass CP Brake Pro Max Linear Pull with 64mm pads and linear springs. Brake Levers Pro Max 3-Finger Die Cast Alloy with reach adjuster Handlebar Alloy 30mm rise, 6 degree bend, 600 wide Stem Trail Tuned, cast alloy threadless 25 degree rise with forged front load cap. Grips Lock-on double density Kraton Headset FPD Threadless Aheadset 1 1/8" Saddle Trial Tuned super soft with two tone cover Seat Post Forged Alloy, micro adjust 26.8 x 350

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22May/09Off

2007 Schwinn Mesa Hardtail Mountain Bike Small

Mountain Bike Action, March 2007 - "Considering that this bike costs less than most suspension forks, how can a rider on a tight budget lose? You get a 24-speed SRAM SX-4 drivetrain with a wide-range cassette (to help you make it up the hills) and trigger shifters."
Frame Schwinn N'Litened Silver Label Custom Drawn Aluminum with Trial-Tuned geometry, Epicenter seat stays, replaceable hanger and disc brake mount.
Fork SR Suntour XCT Aluminum lowers, Coil Spring with friction damping, pre-load adjustment, bootless, 80mm travel
Rear Shock N/A
Crankset Truvativ X-Flow alloy arms, 42-32-22 Cr-Mo rings
Bottom Bracket Truvativ sealed cartridge square taper 68 x 113 with chainline stabilizer
Pedals ATB Resin body, Boron steel axle, Steel cage. Toe-clip adaptable.
Front Derailleur SRAM 3.0 31.8 top pull
Rear Derailleur SRAM SX4
Shifters SRAM SX-4 dual trigger control
Freewheel Shimano CS-HG30 8-speed cassette 11-32
Chain KMC Z-72
Rims Jalco double wall alloy with finished sidewalls to improve wet braking, 32H
Tires Kenda Klaw XT 26" x 2.1" Front and Rear specific tread pattern.
Front Hub Joy Tech Alloy Weather Sealed with alloy QR
Rear Hub Joy Tech Alloy Weather Sealed QR set with Cassette 8-speed rear
Spokes Stainless steel 14 gauge with brass spoke nipples
Nipples Brass CP
Brake Pro Max Linear Pull with 64mm pads and linear springs.
Brake Levers Pro Max 3-Finger Die Cast Alloy with reach adjuster
Handlebar Alloy 30mm rise, 6 degree bend, 600 wide
Stem Trail Tuned, cast alloy threadless 25 degree rise with forged front load cap.
Grips Lock-on double density Kraton
Headset FPD Threadless Aheadset 1 1/8"
Saddle Trial Tuned super soft with two tone cover
Seat Post Forged Alloy, micro adjust 26.8 x 350
Seat Clamp Alloy Low-Profile QR with forged clamp

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14May/09Off

Iron Horse Maverick 1.0 Women’s XC Recreational Mountain Bike

The Maverick range of bikes is designed for recreational XC riders and people just getting into the sport of mountain biking. The Maverick 1.0 women's bike is distinguished by such features as an aluminum hardtail frame with a 1-1/8-inch Zero Stack headtube, an RST 191-T7 fork with 80mm of travel, a Shimano TX30 rear derailleur with Shimano EF-50 EZ-Fire shifters, alloy linear pull brakes, an SRAM PG-730 7-speed cassette, ITS Ninja tires, and a WTB Speed V Sport SE saddle. pbSpecifications:/bbrulliFrame: 6063 aluminum hardtail frame with 1-1/8-inch Zero Stack headtube, formed downtube, replaceable derailleur hanger, and international disc brake mount liRear shock: N/A liFork: RST 191-T7, 80mm travel liHandlebar: Steel riserbar liStem: Steel liHeadset: Threadless steel liBB: Sealed cartridge liCrank: Suntour XCC T102 liRings: 42/34/24T steel liPedals: Resin platform liChain: KMC Z-51 liSaddle: WTB Speed V Sport SE liSeat post: Alloy micro adjust liFront hub: Alloy QR, 36H liRear hub: Alloy QR, 36H liFront derailleur: E-Thirteen STS Guide with 36T bash guard liRear derailleur: Shimano TX30 liShifter: Shimano EF-50 EZ-Fire liCassette: SRAM PG-730, 12/32, 7 speed liBrakes: Alloy linear pull liBrake lever: Shimano EF-50 EZ-Fire liRim: Alloy with brushed sidewalls liSpokes: 14G liTires: ITS Ninja, 26 x 2.1 inches liSize: 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, and 19.5 inches liColors: Purple, ice blue liWeight: 31.3 pounds (purple), 30.9 pounds (ice blue) /ulpstrongfont color=CC6600BIGAmazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide/BIG/font/strongbrbrstrongFinding the Right Bike/strongbr To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:pstrongThe Right Ride/strongbr In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:ullistrongRoad and Racing Bikes/strong--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain. listrongMountain Bikes/strong--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine. listrongComfort/Cruiser Bikes/strong--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family. /ulpstrongThe Right Price/strongbr A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.ullistrongEntry-level/strong--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use. listrongMid-range/strong--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension. listrongHigh-end/strong--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultralightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action./ulpstrongThe Right Size/strongbr Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:ullistrongStand-over Height/strong--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height. listrongTop Tube Length/strong--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit. listrongBikes for Women/strong--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance. /ulpstrongThe Right Accessories/strongbr When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:ulliHelmet (this is a must!) liSeat pack liLock liHydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage liSpare tubes liPortable bike pump liGloves /ulp

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5May/09Off

2009 Mongoose Tyax Elite (All Mountain)

Experience the fun of riding everywhere with Mongoose's Tyax Elite. Its light, efficient aluminum frame and 100mm-travel SR SunTour suspension fork are ready to conquer descents and climbs. Plus, this sweet hardtail boasts fine components including Promax mechanical disc brakes, a Shimano/SR SunTour 24-speed drivetrain, light Alex wheels and grippy Kenda knobbies. And, the oversize bar and stem, Mongoose pedals and WTB seat are icing on the cake. Specifications: Frame: Mongoose 6061Aluminum w/ Trail Tested geometry, Zero Stack head tube and replaceable hanger Fork: Suntour XCM HLO, 100mm travel, preload adjust and hydraulic lock out Rear Shock: Front Derailleur: Suntour XCM202 Rear Derailleur: Shimano Alivio M410 Shifters: Shimano Alivio M410 Rapidfire 24 speed Brakes Levers: ProMax Alloy w/ adjuster Brakes: N/A Chain: KMC Z72 Crankset: FSA Dyna Drive alloy (22/32/42T) Cassette: Shimano HG30 11-32T, 8-speed cassette Pedals: Mongoose alloy platform Bottom Bracket: FSA sealed cartridge Headset: N/A Saddle: WTB Speed V sport Seat Post: Mongoose alloy w/ micro adjust clamp Handlebar: Mongoose alloy riser 31.8x30x635 mm (XS, S) 685 mm (M, L, XL, XXL) Grips: Mongoose Dual density Kraton w/ gel insert Stem: Mongoose alloy 31.8 x 90 mm (S M) 110 mm (L, XL, XXL) Tires: N/A Wheelset: Formula Disc Alloy QR 32H / Alex TD24 disc specific double wall Weight: N/A Color: Black

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4May/09Off

2009 Mongoose Tyax Elite (All Mountain)

Experience the fun of riding everywhere with Mongoose's Tyax Elite. Its light, efficient aluminum frame and 100mm-travel SR SunTour suspension fork are ready to conquer descents and climbs. Plus, this sweet hardtail boasts fine components including Promax mechanical disc brakes, a Shimano/SR SunTour 24-speed drivetrain, light Alex wheels and grippy Kenda knobbies. And, the oversize bar and stem, Mongoose pedals and WTB seat are icing on the cake. Specifications: Frame: Mongoose 6061Aluminum w/ Trail Tested geometry, Zero Stack head tube and replaceable hanger Fork: Suntour XCM HLO, 100mm travel, preload adjust and hydraulic lock out Rear Shock: Front Derailleur: Suntour XCM202 Rear Derailleur: Shimano Alivio M410 Shifters: Shimano Alivio M410 Rapidfire 24 speed Brakes Levers: ProMax Alloy w/ adjuster Brakes: N/A Chain: KMC Z72 Crankset: FSA Dyna Drive alloy (22/32/42T) Cassette: Shimano HG30 11-32T, 8-speed cassette Pedals: Mongoose alloy platform Bottom Bracket: FSA sealed cartridge Headset: N/A Saddle: WTB Speed V sport Seat Post: Mongoose alloy w/ micro adjust clamp Handlebar: Mongoose alloy riser 31.8x30x635 mm (XS, S) 685 mm (M, L, XL, XXL) Grips: Mongoose Dual density Kraton w/ gel insert Stem: Mongoose alloy 31.8 x 90 mm (S M) 110 mm (L, XL, XXL) Tires: N/A Wheelset: Formula Disc Alloy QR 32H / Alex TD24 disc specific double wall Weight: N/A Color: Black

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