[bad mechanic]

i need to decide on a new hardtail frame. i've found the following options:

'02 used ellsworth specialist: $500 shipped
?? like new jack flash rad: $500 shipped
'04 new planet x ridgeback: $510 shipped

i'm partial to planet x frames (my newjackflash is my third), but the specialist looks pretty nice. i think it might also be lighter than either px. it will be used mostly for urban, with some downhill and xc mixed in.

 

[biggins]

i would go with the specialist. you may also wanna think about an endless lifetime. steel, great bike for everything. lifetime warranty. just start a thread that goes like this " how do you like your endless frame?" and you will get many responses. they are a little more expensive than the used specialist but they are badas frames. i think they run 700 new.

 

[dexterq20]

Both Planet X frames you're considering are very race-oriented, and won't be the most versatile frames for dirt jumping and urban. That being said, I have a 2003 Jack Flash RAD frame and love it. Up until about 3 weeks ago, it was my only bike, and I rode it everywhere, from DH to slalom to urban and everything in between. I also think the RAD is one of the lightest slalom hardtail frames you can get (even though it's not made anymore), and nobody has ever broken one. Just something to think about.

 

[dexterq20]

Forgot to mention 2 things:

The Ridgeback is a little bit smaller than the Jack Flash RAD, so if you're 5'11" or taller, I'd stay away from the Ridgeback, cuz it'll just be too small.

Also, the RAD frames have issues with chainline when using an e.thirteen chainguide. Something to consider as you're selecting parts.