Mountain Biking - New Rider with some questions

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BLACKLOCK
07-29-02, 11:54 AM
I recently got into biking and have started to look for a new bike. I have been riding my old one from target and have decided to get me an entry level bike from a shop. I started to look at the Raleigh M20 (250.00) then seen a Giant Boulder SE (269.00) I like both and both were at different shops. Both are also 2003 models. I have a friend that is friends with a guy working at the shop with the Raleigh. He told his boss I found a Giant that I am looking at getting. He then offered me a 2003 Raleigh M40 for the same price (269.00) as the Giant and thru in a lifetime service plan if i buy from him. What bike would you think would be the better of them?


a2psyklnut
07-29-02, 02:40 PM
First things first, regardless of what kind of deal you get, make sure you like the way the bike rides.

As a newbie, I suggest you test ride as many different bikes and each bike many times as possible. I know this takes time, and you just want to get one and start riding, but test ride them both and buy the one you're more comfortable on. If you buy the "better deal" bike and aren't comfortable, you won't ride it as much and it'll end up collecting dust in the garage! Then you've just pissed away another $269.00!!!!!!!

BTW, at that price, they're both good deals. The lifetime service is a good deal on top! That's about a $25 - 30 value everytime you bring your bike in. However, don't go crazy on that bike. That service agreement is for regular tune-ups. If you go jumping your bike off a 10'0" drop and destroy the wheels (and everything else) don't expect them to rebuild your bike for free. That service is for basic tune-ups. Adjusting the brakes, shifters, lightly truing wheels, maybe even lubing your chain. Does NOT include new tires and tubes, new parts that broke through abuse..etc.

Just a heads up. Ride both bikes (and others) and buy the most comfy even if it costs you an extra couple of bucks!

L8R