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Cadabra Vs Trance?


goosehead's picture

By goosehead - Posted on 08 January 2012

NB: Originally posted elsewhere on the Global Riders Network and appears via syndication.

Hey Guys,

I am looking at getting a new bike and can't decide between the two. Is there anyone out there that has ridden both and can give me an idea of how they handle? I am looking at doing some XC racing but also enjoying bombing downhill on the weekends. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

ChopStiR's picture

I own last years Trance and have been loving it.

I dont know much about Cadabra so I did a quick google to do a comparison.

I went in the search trying my best not to have a Bias opinion.

Both Bikes offer a lifetime warranty on the frame!

Cadabra Vs Trance

The Differences that stand out to me is Trance uses Shimano XT Drivetrain while the Cadabra has a mix of shimano parts.

The wheel Set is also different. I googled Easton XC Wheel Set for reviews. I found that the the wheel set is not UST Compatible while the Shimano XT on the Trance is. Some users got tubeless to work while others didnt. There is also a few complaints that the Easton XC Wheel rims are week and have buckled.

After a year my hub freebody failed, but my LBS got this replaced for free under warranty.

Both are nice looking bikes, I do love my trance.

DudeistPriest's picture

Find a shop(s) that will let you test ride the bikes then make a decision. I thought I was sold on a particular brand and model until I rode my current bike then everything changed. Also if you do test ride them make sure you take them for a good ride, hit some trails, not just a ride around the car park. The shop I went to let me take two bikes for two days each, it cost me $80.00, however, I could put the $80.00 towards a bike or other gear, if I didn't buy a bike. IMO it was money well spent.

goosehead's picture

Organising a demo for the Trance is not real problem although I still haven't had the time. The Cadabra is another story, I have just come from Brisbane and there where non there and I haven't seen any in Perth.

The other thing I was thinking is the Trance maybe be easier to maintain/repair being more common the parts will be easier to source.

goosehead's picture

I have ended up buying a Trance. I'll see how that kicks on.

daveh's picture

I have a Trance and now also an Epic 29er and I still love the Trance (hopefully it will get a run around the Dam on Sunday!). It's quite a versatile bike. Not quite All Mountain but can definitely take the bigger, rougher stuff and not quite a race bike but set up right it goes all right for a long day in the saddle.

Enjoy!

tdunster's picture

You can get a Trance Advanced SL1 for the same price as a Kona Cadabra.

T800 Carbon with XT Groupset "vs" Aluminium with mixed bag of Shimano

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