Getting into biking, just picked up a 29er

[Deadman 94 xj]

Just bought this:
http://www.rei.com/product/844742/cannondale-trail-sl-29er-4-bike-2013
Canondale SL4 29er

Its just a beginner but I'm hoping it'll hold me over for a while. I guess 2013 saw a new frame design which makes it lighter, etc.

Anyway, I was just looking for some advice as far as components. I know the Forks on this arn't the best. What can I expect as far as failure? Longivity? I took it out for about 5 miles on some light trails and I know I need new pedals. Recommendations? I'm new to all of this!

Helmet? lol

[jeepxj3]

Crank Brothers, go clipless. Helmet, eh, its what doesn't make you look dorkey...

[Deadman 94 xj]

Crank Brothers, go clipless. Helmet, eh, its what doesn't make you look dorkey...

I've rebuilt this entire bike, lol.

[Sycotik Skier]

I own 3 sets of crank bros pedals. I bought a pair right after they came out 12 years or so ago. Still use them, still tight. My two more recent pairs didn't last a hundred miles before the bearings blew out

[Deadman 94 xj]

I like the bike but most everything on it is disposable I've found. I had the shimano 540 (?) pedals on it for a while and got pretty good at them but when I started getting into more technical stuff I decided to go with a platform again. Much less anxiety and I can't say I miss the clipless. I'll still throw them on for street stuff, etc. Pedals are Forte Convert Platforms. They're light, thin, and have really good grip.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-O5AD8axN080/U4O_6PgYIwI/AAAAAAAAArU/Dd8czLJ1xfQ/s800/20140526_175819.jpg

Rest of the bike:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QzwdxBywErM/U4O_8FQbOMI/AAAAAAAAArc/iDM3P3jMElk/s800/20140526_175756.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wzsngpeRRUk/U4O_0mpQdEI/AAAAAAAAArM/kvhTtHKVjD0/s800/IMG_24139026068798.jpeg


I've since changed out the rear wheel and hub but I need recomendations on a good wheel set. I'm very hard on things FWIW. I'm also looking at a different rear derailer.

ALL recommendations are welcome.

[Sycotik Skier]

Aside from when I go to the wheel mill or Ray's, I always ride clipless. I struggle on platforms. I've also been running them for ever so its instinct to twist out. Crank Bros and Time style pedals are easier to unclip than an SPD style pedal. By all means rock what you're comfortable with and just ride.

[Deadman 94 xj]

Aside from when I go to the wheel mill or Ray's, I always ride clipless. I struggle on platforms. I've also been running them for ever so its instinct to twist out. Crank Bros and Time style pedals are easier to unclip than an SPD style pedal. By all means rock what you're comfortable with and just ride.

Thanks! I agree. I'm looking at a set of wheels and tires for it and it should be good to go for a while.