thorn catalyst

[dezza]

Hi,
I'm looking at the Catalyst for sale on site looks like a good buy please can anyone advise.
I am wanting a touring bike some off road trails/railway tracks etc as well as on road up to week long credit card type touring...would the catalyst do it for me.
It seems to have a long top tube just wondering about sizing for my 5' 7" height.
Can't seem to find much info re reviews etc, any advice would be very much appreciated.
Don't want to repeat my recent mistake buying and moving on too quickly a Raven Sport.
Thank you
Steve   

[Danneaux]

Hi Steve!

The Thorn Raven Catalyst brochure is available in the Archives ( http://www.thorncycles.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=6975.0 ) and comes up just fine at this link: http://web.archive.org/web/20050331172232/http://www.sjscycles.com/thornpdf/ThornCatalystBroHiRes.pdf

It includes a photo on page 4 showing a nicely-laden Catalyst ready to tour off-road for what looks like a substantial ride. That's heartening for your needs.

I've attached a copy of the Catalyst sizing chart below; it should help answer any questions about size for your height. I don't know your dimensions or that of the frame you're considering, but it appears a 532S XL would fit you nicely, and perhaps other sizes too, depending on what fork you choose to run and how much standover you require.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Dan.

[lewis noble]

I have a Thorn Ripio, which I guess is not far from the concept of a Catalyst, though with dérailleur gears and probably different tubing - the Ripio is Reynolds 725?

I think it is an excellent bike, and it is a shame they are no longer made - I guess the Ripio never caught on because it looked basic in equipment and expensive beside the offerings in the chain stores, with disc brakes, sus forks and all the kit. But it is well made and very secure and comfortable.

I ride mine mainly on roads and trails, with a Mt Tura fork - the sus fork it came with unused so far.  Very sure footed when I have gone onto rougher stuff.

With a low top tube, and geometry that suits me very well, I like it more than any bike I have ever had, and I guess would be good for your sort of riding.

Good luck

Lewis