>>1110618I sometimes commute on it... And I do 100km rides on it. I can just get that seat higher than the handlebars, and I can achieve a weird, but not knee-killing posture. Heavy, yes. Not uphill friendly, yes. But rule number 5.
Also, when doing a casual 1.5m drop or something, the seat will save my balls. And of course, wheelies.
>>1110621Use something like rubber bands to secure the zipper in place so things don't fall out.
I looked for your bike's specs, looks like you should change the whole Altus and X4 stuff.
If I were you, I would choose a 1x10 or a 1x11 drivetrain, with a SRAM derailleur and SRAM shifter (superior ergonomics), the cassette doesn't matter as long as it matches the derailleur's chain capacity, it can be Shimano or SRAM. I run a SRAM X9 derailleur and shifter, with an XT cassette / chain combo.
You got a 8sp SRAM X4 in the rear, so start by removing the front derailleur and putting on a narrow wide ring and new cranks.
Get a better fork, some RockShox / Fox air stuff. I'm not good at choosing XC forks, I only look at Marzocchi 888s and stuff like that.
Then you can upgrade your brakes to hydraulics.
The handlebars, stem, and your seat is for you to choose, as long as it's comfy. I prefer wider bars and shorter stems, but I ride FR/DH, so that's the only way to do it. A thinner seat will make you look pro. :^)
Look at other bikes for inspiration, and see what certain bikes are used for, so you get an idea of what you want your bike to look like, and what you want to do with it.
Also, wheels.
