Mountain Bikes

[Texas Horn]

I'm sure there have been plenty of topics on this, so sorry for any repitition.

I enjoy mountain biking. Nothing too extreme, just like being off-road and the exercise. My bike was recently stolen and I am in the market for a new one and thought I would explore an upgrade. My budget is somewhere in the $700-1500 range. Any suggestions on the best bike in that price range, shopping pitfalls, etc? I'm not a beginner, know what size frame I need, etc. so the thread down below doesn't really answer any of my questions.

Any thoughts on Kona vs. Rocky Mountain? Or will I do just fine with a solid Gary Fisher (my old bike that got stolen)?

Thanks.

 

[horn4life]

You might try the bulletin board at the bike shop at 24th and San Gabriel, Freewheeling I think. I have seen some good deals on used bikes there.

I have also seen some pretty darn good deals on used mountain bikes in the austin paper. Probably some student who blew a ton of cash then now needs the money.

If you know what size you need that helps a ton if you are considering used. i always think used if I can find something top quality for substantially less than retail. On things like bikes they can be ridden like hell or barely ridden....

 

[StonebridgeEX]

www.mtbr.com/reviews/xc_hardtail/

 

[Clarence Iba]

The Link

 

[Texas Horn]

not buying used. good links. thanks guys.

 

[RosannaGroove]

I replied in another MTB thread as well, but in case you didn't read it. I just bought a Specialized Rockhopper, which was about $500 and below your price range and it's a great bike. But from the reading I did and talking to bike shop guys, Specialized seems to make a really great MTB.

You might look at this - Stumpjumper. Or if you want full suspension - XC.

Of course, I'm not like an expert at all. I'm just repeating what some bike shop guys told me.

 

[unpaintedhuffhines]

TH...

my bike is a Specialized Rockhopper and I have no complaints

Seriously, you really don't need to spend $1000 for the trails we ride (unless you intend on turning into turbo rider)

 

[Texas Horn]

It's a free bike. What do I care what it costs?

 

[MilkmanDan]

How can I get a free bike?

 

[unpaintedhuffhines]

well then, spend away

 

[MizzouSnives]

when getting your bike i would look at way more than the frame. a good brand name grame is one thing, but if it has crap components you might as well be riding a huffy (which actually owns trek, hah). i would leave enough in the budget for upgrades if you need them or even wish-list type things: chris king headset, xtr components, etc. and make sure you get a good front fork. the best thing i did was go with a raleigh frame (m80) which was less than the gary fisher i was looking at and got a nice manitou fork. helps the ride a lot and takes more hits than the judy on the fisher. good luck!