Redline Monocog vs Civilian Luddite

Howdy all,

I think this might be my first post, if not, definitely my first in a while.

I live in the Denver area and am finally getting back into riding and chomping at the bit to try a SS 29er. Any thoughts on these two bikes, as they seem to be two of the best available in my price range (below $1000). The Luddite is a bit more expensive, is it worth it?

I like the fact I can go test ride a Redline, which I can’t with the Civilian.

I am also going to take a Surly Karate Monkey out for a test ride as well, which I am looking forward to.

Thanks.

[DisabledCyclist]

I’ve owned a few RL’s over the years,so those I can comment on,a friend has owned a Surly KM for a few years,I can add a bit on that one,but never seen the Civilian…

I owned/loved a 1st gen Monocog (26"er) from ’02 until loast year,and a d440 (29"er 1×8 setup as a 2×9),LOVED em both. They both rode really well,much better than similarly priced bikes from elsewhere that I’ve ridden (sub-$650-mine wasn’t a Flite model),and I know from persoanly experience that RL has excellent customer service. I can recommend them and sleep very well tonight 😃

My Bud swears by his KM,and often changes out parts to change it from a SS mtn bike to a geared one,from rigid to frnt suspended,even slaps some 35mm CX tires on there for road riding (sometimes loaded for a s24o bike camping on rail trails loaded with racks/panniers)…it’s VERY versitile like that. I’ve ridden it a few times myself,I wouldn’t hesitate to buy one myself,Surly makes them some good bikes. I can recommend them from my own experience as well (having owned/loved a 1×1 and an Instigator).

Having a shop that has in stock bikes (like you mentioned the with the RL) where you ca test ride is a good thing/sign as well,IMO,it means you have sop support (not "needed" to enjoy riding/mtn biking,being a cyclist,but always a definate plus) and something to consider. Hope that helps 😀

Thanks DC, really appreciate you taking the time to reply. It did help reinforce my thought process so far…..

Take care.

[DisabledCyclist]

No problem,hope it helped a bit. Also hoping to see cool pics of whatever bike you decide on 😃

[Dustin Gaddis]

Have you read the review I did?

On test: http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-ge … tain-bike/

Final review: http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-ge … al-review/

One thing to consider: Tyson Hart bought the Civillian name brand back shortly after my review was posted. I’m not sure if he’s still selling them to competitive cyclist or going I go back to just doing custom hand built bikes or what.

http://www.ridecvln.com/under-old-management/

I did, in fact your review was what had me leaning towards the Luddite in the first place, if memory serves….

I will go back and re-read.

Thanks so much for the comment. Take care.

[roadgamethes]

yeah, good idea, really appreciate you taking the time to reply. It did help reinforce my thought process so far

[brianW]

I have a Luddite and am very pleased with it. The wheels are heavy but you can reduce weight there down the road. It handles very good IMO and climbs great.

[Author]

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