Which bike? A Mongoose Crossway 350 or Claud Butler 200?

[whichbike]

Hi,

I have seen two bikes which I like, Mongoose Crossway 350 or Claud Butler 200. Can't decide!

I will be mostly using the bike for rides around the country on roads. No off-roading really.

Swinging more over to the Mongoose Crossway 350 as it is a better looking bike and sits more upright. Plus it has suspension on the folks which aren't that good, but better then not I suppose. It also has 24 gears and the claud has 21.

But what do I know about bikes? Pretty much nothing. Your opinions are very welcome. They are both about £250 in the shop I went too. About £350 online for some reason.

Thanks

 

[corshamjim]

They both look quite capable. You're right the Mongoose does look like it has a more upright riding position (which I like too). Note the Claud Butler has an adjustable stem though so you can probably set it up similar.

Both look like they can take full mudguards which you might want unless you're only planning on going out in dry conditions.

 

[Sheepy1209]

Is it the CB 'Urban' 200?

One of my son's friends has one of these, and I'm quite impressed by it - it's not featherweight, but it feels nicely balanced and seems to be well built. It's used in all weathers and has suffered its fair share of abuse but seems to be standing up to it OK. I'd say it's a respectable starter bike and should be reliable - 7-speed means it's a rear freewheel rather than cassette, but that's no big deal unless you're carrying a lot of weight.

And don't go for suspension forks at this price level - you'll grow to hate them if you ride only on the road. Decently-wide tyres are a much better bet.

 

[whichbike]

Thanks. I think the mongoose looks nicer. But has the front suspension. However you can switch it off - does this make a difference? Claud seems better balanced tho. But doesn't have the upright position style. I'll have to see if it can be set up like that.

What's the difference between the urban and whatever the alternative Claud is?