Thread: Good/Bad Idea?

I need help, and who better to ask then the kings/queens of the gear whores, the Magions?

I certainly don't need a new frame. However, I've been looking pretty seriously into the VPFree. I currently ride a Bullit, which as a freeride bike, I love. It's weakness comes out when racing though. I know I should be looking into an all out race frame, but I need something that can climb as well...hence the VP Free. The beauty if this frame is that it's a little bit lower, longer and slacker and so a bit better for DH racing

I've worked on and off at an LBS in my home town, and the owner is offering me a killer discount for the frame. The only problems are that I'd have to wait until July to get it (SC sucks at filling orders) and I can't really afford it.

This leads me to my question. I only took out about 12% of the financial aid I was allotted for the year. I was thinking I could take out enough to pay for the new frame and any parts I'd need. Then, I can sell the Bullit frame when the new bike is built (I also have a Boxxer Race to sell) and put that money towards the loan. Is this a terrible idea or a stroke of genius? My debt from student loans is minimal (under $2000), so it's not like I'd be adding to some major debt. However, that number will increase since I need cash for the summer and next fall. Also, it seems if I really tried, I could have the frame paid off before I ever started accruing interest.

Anyone?

I'd say go for it. You only live once, and why die with money left over?

That being said hopefully I'll be getting a deeply discounted one this summer too...ah the perks at working at a shop

Heh, no strictly DH racing.

I'd love to sport for a Turner DHR, but my shop doesn't carry them and I need something that'll climb reasonably well.

what class do you race? is getting a bike in july really gonna help your cause?

besides you really think a different bike is gonna make you faster?

so IMO this has little to do with racing and more a deal you don't want to pass up. of course if i could get a deal on a vpfree I'd be all over it. but I am not in debt nor do i have a DH bike. so my finance advice would be if you have loans to pay off ride one of the TWO NICE BIKES YOU ALREADY HAVE.

Originally posted by hev

Yeah, I'm jealous too.

BT, I did what your thinking about when I was in grad school and took out extra cash to afford the finer things in life. My thought was in four or five years when I could afford what I wanted I wouldn't want it or use it anymore. So I bought my first Bullit and rode it a bunch until I graduated. At that point I had so much fun with the bike that I had forgot all about the 2 grand loan. So I guess what I'm saying is you'll always be in some form of debt throughout life why not enjoy it when you can. Besides the VPF is rad, can I say that? Seriously it is a sweet bike. Once my buddy gets back from Africa we'll be taking a trip to WV if you haven't pulled the trigger on the bike yet we can hook up at the forest for a test ride.

I'm still waiting on a few parts, but once I ride it I'll post some info.

Well some good ideas. I believe I aready outlined a plan of action you could take, but the loan would work too. Remember I took out a loan to get the Sugar. It was totally worth it at the time and has been a great bike for years. No interest would be nice too. So step up to the plate, make the call and place the order. I don't want to hear any more of your be-itching. And your bullit is like 2 years old anyway, time to upgrade, cause your riding style has stepped up, that bullit is just holding you back from excelling any further. But I understand if you are scared.

Hev, you have a good point. There are a few races in August and September, including the Mayhem race at Snowshoe (which I really want to win this year). As for class, I haven't decided. I was riding sport last year, and doing decently well, but I'm thinking about bumping up to expert just to increase the fun level (of course, that will decrease the placement level).

L8APX, I will definitely take you up on that offer. Let me know when you guys are planning on coming to WV so I can make plans to come down and ride w/ you guys. Hendley has been working on the freeride trail quite a bit. It lacks flow, but it's still a blast.

Fondig, stop trying to spend my money.

Yeah, I thought Hev did have a good idea. But who are we kidding, we love new toys just like the rest of them. I mean I am still trying to finish paying off my specialist (which I love). You didn't help me save money when it came to disc brakes and a new fork. But it was worth every penny. Well talk later, only you know your own financial situation. But come on a new bike is a new bike, it is almost like a new girlfriend, if not better.

Quit blaming me for making your bike kick ass....instead you should be thanking me. Also, shouldn't it be poofiness?

I just sent the request for summer finaid. I'm gonna see how much they'll give me and go from there. Hopefully the wait for the frame won't have gotten too much longer.