Mountain Biking - Mt. Bike purchase advise

I am a roadie looking for some good advice on a Mt. Bike for my son's livein girl. Budget is under $800 and soft or hardtail will be considered. Just trial riding in Montana where they live.

I was really surprised there is no sticky with bikes at the entry price point like there is on the road bike fourm
- Under $700 - which is considered the entry price point for a pretty good road bike. Just like Mt. biking you can spend thousands on a road bike - but a $700 one will get you from a to b in pretty good shape.

Thanks in advance.

Forgot to add: I have built up 7 bikes so a frame and scrounging of parts is also not out of the question.

Specialized Hardrock @$500.

there used to be a "under $500 MTB" thread - look back towards the fall & maybe you'll find it.

Read the "Please Read before asking Questions" sticky - Chapter 2

Read the "Please Read before asking Questions" sticky - Chapter 2

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck. I asked a valid question and my price point is $800 not $500 or so. I have 11 bikes in my garage and know a heck of a lot about road bikes. Just looking for some suggestions beyond what I have found locally.

do you want to build the bike or would you rather buy something stock?

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck. I asked a valid question and my price point is $800 not $500 or so. I have 11 bikes in my garage and know a heck of a lot about road bikes. Just looking for some suggestions beyond what I have found locally.

Calm down. Throwing around attitude isn't going to get you very far on this forum. Trust me. I don't want to put words in her mouth, but I believe that she mentioned this in response to your comment, "I was really surprised there is no sticky with bikes at the entry price point like there is on the road bike fourm..." There is a sticky and the price point that was chosen here was $500 based on the volume of questions that have been received asking about mountain bikes at $500 or less.

To answer your question, at the price point that you are considering, you probably want to stick to hardtails if buying new. You'll be able to get a good frame and some decent level components. If you are looking for a full suspension, looking used might provide you with better options.

Regarding hardtails, the following brands all have solid offers in your price range:
Cannondale
Kona
Specialized
Gary Fisher
Giant
Trek

I'm sure others around here can provide some additional thoughts.

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck.

$500 is the entry level for MTB hardtails. she was trying to help you out.

$800 should get you one step above a budget hartail.

pick a brand any brand.

The only thing you will need to know is whether or not she requires a beefier frame, for jumps and stunts, or if she is looking for a lighter weight XC rig.

Something else to consider is whether or not your son is a pig sticker. If yes, then you may want to check out the Kona Hoss Line of bikes.

good luck

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck. I asked a valid question and my price point is $800 not $500 or so. I have 11 bikes in my garage and know a heck of a lot about road bikes. Just looking for some suggestions beyond what I have found locally.

No you didn't fall off the truck...you're still on it. Remember the old adage of flys and honey? It applies here too.

Am I the only one getting annoyed from these threads??!

Am I the only one getting annoyed from these threads??!

Do you mean:

a. someone asking for bike buying advice without looking at the stickies or doing searches

or

b. someone throwing **** at long time members and asking for favors

or

c. someone saying things that would make one think they are a troll


answer key:

if a: Not so much. Searching can get really difficult sometimes. Perhaps there could be a sticky with the title of "Bikes under $500," rather than it just being in the beginner thread.

if b: Yes.

if c: Seems to come with being a part of any forum.

Perhaps there could be a sticky with the title of "Bikes under $500," rather than it just being in the beginner thread.

+10000000000

Mr. Smashy get to work!;) :p :D

+10000000000

Mr. Smashy get to work!;) :p :D

Agreed.

...... and know a heck of a lot about road bikes.

That about sums it up right there.:rolleyes:

You know, I wouldn't even have gone looking for the entry level info (ie, chapter 2 of the beginners thread) if the oilman hadn't said "I was really surprised there is no sticky with bikes at the entry price point like there is on the road bike fourm" - ask, and you shall receive, oilman. Don't complain about the thread titlebeing offensive to your bike collection! Aside from both having a frame & wheels, Road & MTBs are a bit different, as you obviously realize. The beginners thread tells you about the important differences, and what to look for. Sorry you didn't need the info. Go to you LBS & look around - maybe they won't treat you like you fell off a turnip truck.

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck. I asked a valid question and my price point is $800 not $500 or so. I have 11 bikes in my garage and know a heck of a lot about road bikes. Just looking for some suggestions beyond what I have found locally.

Good job, you were just rude to the nicest, most patient member on this board. It's not nice to talk to our (mtb forum's) mom in such a tone. Probably not the route I would take to get help around here.

Oh, Lowcel, now I'm blushing!

Oh, Lowcel, now I'm blushing!

I'm blushing too.

im also a roadie looking to buy a lower-level mtb so im familiar with your situation....

check out Jamis at http://www.jamisbikes.com. i have an entry-level road bike from jamis and never saw a reason to upgrade because its such a good bike, but theyve been making solid MTBs since their inception and you can get a good component mix at lower prices than some other places.

personally, i have my eyes on the 2007 Durango 2.0 in the hardtails.
MSRP - $775 USD.
solid bike, solid specs, solid price.

you can browse around on the website and check things out, and you can usually rely on LBS owners to shave a little bit off the MSRP for the sake of price competition if you befriend them. hope this helps, and good luck on your search.

Oh, Lowcel, now I'm blushing!

I look like I'm blushing. In reality I am just extremely sun burned. I look like a freaking lobster!!! :eek: I went out and did a century yesterday and forgot to use any lotion. Oops.

im also a roadie looking to buy a lower-level mtb so im familiar with your situation....

check out Jamis at http://www.jamisbikes.com. theyve been making solid MTBs for a long time and you can get a good component mix at lower prices than some other places.

personally, i have my eyes on the 2007 Durango 2.0 in the hardtails.
MSRP - $775 USD.
solid bike, solid price.

you can browse around on the website and check things out, and you can usually rely on LBS owners to shave a little bit off the MSRP for the sake of price competition if you befriend them. hope this helps, and good luck on your search.

Jamis are awesome bikes for their price. Also check out KHS and Giants. They have a great quality to price ratio as well.

There's a Scott Scale 70, list price $799.99 for $559.95 + $45 shipping at www.sierratradingpost.com

Deore & XT, 7005 alloy butted frame, Rock shox J2 fork w/ 80 mm travel - a bit heavy at 27.9 pounds, but sounds nice for tooling about.

Lowcel - Serves you right for being in FL while we're having a snow storm!

Do you mean:

a. someone asking for bike buying advice without looking at the stickies or doing searches

or

b. someone throwing **** at long time members and asking for favors

or

c. someone saying things that would make one think they are a troll


answer key:

if a: Not so much. Searching can get really difficult sometimes. Perhaps there could be a sticky with the title of "Bikes under $500," rather than it just being in the beginner thread.

if b: Yes.

if c: Seems to come with being a part of any forum.
Oh man... i just had to laugh at you & your above there, Mr. long time member.

that Scott Scale Idea is a good one. Also, you can check REI outlet for good bikes with great discounts.

http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/48122632.htm

and

http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/48122531.htm?vcat=OUTLET_SSHP_CYCLING_SA

personally, I would built one, if I could. there are some really cheap build kits around. So, you can pick a decent frame and you have a nice set up.....

Check out www.wheelworld.com

build Kit:

depending on your preference and type of riding you could pick one of these build kits....

XC (with V brakes)
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=3829

All Mountain (with lots of versatility)
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=3830

MTB Sport level
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=4211

For frame:

Check out the following from this site:

http://www.jensonusa.com/store/sub/539-Cross+Country.aspx

Azonic AZ-7 would be a good match with the XC build kit.

Jamis Dakota AL Frame '06 for MTB sport build kit

or

Jamis Dakar Sport OE '05 for the All Mountain build kit

also depending on your budget you could go with the

Jamis XLT 1.0 Frame '05 for the All Mountaint build....

But, if you want to stick to hardtails.....the following frames are pretty nice too...

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14967-175_SETDC5-3-Parts-60-Frames/Sette-Shadow-Frame-'06.htm

and

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14169-175_SETHS5-3-Parts-60-Frames/Sette-Reken-Hardtail-Frame.htm

I am sure, there are other great choices out there. but, these were a few that came to my mind right away...good luck.

Please do not treat me like I fell off a turnip truck. I asked a valid question and my price point is $800 not $500 or so. I have 11 bikes in my garage and know a heck of a lot about road bikes. Just looking for some suggestions beyond what I have found locally.

The Hard Rock is a little low. Look at the Rockhopper Comp disc for women. It's a little over ($880) but it's a good bike. For $800 you should stay away from duallies. Those start at around $1200 for a decent one.

Others to look at would be Trek WSD bikes. Unfortunately these are either above or below your budget by too much ($500 or $1000). The Cannondale Caffeine Féminine look good but I'm not sure that they are within your range. The Kona Lisa looks good too but it's $900

She may not need a women's design but it doesn't hurt to start there.

Am I the only one getting annoyed from these threads??!

Then why read them? Or why respond to them?

that Scott Scale Idea is a good one. Also, you can check REI outlet for good bikes with great discounts.

http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/48122632.htm

and

http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/48122531.htm?vcat=OUTLET_SSHP_CYCLING_SA

personally, I would built one, if I could. there are some really cheap build kits around. So, you can pick a decent frame and you have a nice set up.....

Check out www.wheelworld.com

build Kit:

depending on your preference and type of riding you could pick one of these build kits....

XC (with V brakes)
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=3829

All Mountain (with lots of versatility)
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=3830

MTB Sport level
http://wheelworld.com/itemdetails.cfm?catalogId=39&id=4211

For frame:

Check out the following from this site:

http://www.jensonusa.com/store/sub/539-Cross+Country.aspx

Azonic AZ-7 would be a good match with the XC build kit.

Jamis Dakota AL Frame '06 for MTB sport build kit

or

Jamis Dakar Sport OE '05 for the All Mountain build kit

also depending on your budget you could go with the

Jamis XLT 1.0 Frame '05 for the All Mountaint build....

But, if you want to stick to hardtails.....the following frames are pretty nice too...

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14967-175_SETDC5-3-Parts-60-Frames/Sette-Shadow-Frame-'06.htm

and

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14169-175_SETHS5-3-Parts-60-Frames/Sette-Reken-Hardtail-Frame.htm

I am sure, there are other great choices out there. but, these were a few that came to my mind right away...good luck.


Thanks, this is what I was hoping to get.

I did read the "read this before posting" before I posted this and was annoyed that the "$500 or so" with no suggestions other than visit your LBS which is solid advise for buying any bike is directed at someone who has never bought a bike of any kind. I stated my price point was $800 not $500 or so.

To the arse that had to take a cheap shot at me through my family..... your are an arse.

On second thought arse is too kind. You are a piker. Look up the definition.

I've really been sold on IBEX bikes since I bought one a few years back. It's my opinion that their bikes are unmatched in value. The quality:price ratio is awesome. You should check it out. If you can catch one of their frequent sales, you'll definitely find a steal.

http://ibexbikes.com/Bikes-Hub-MTB.html

The quality:price ratio is awesome.

Can you explain the quality/rice ratio litte further? I am unclear on what the rice has to do with it.

On second thought arse is too kind. You are a piker. Look up the definition.

Hey man, it's not my fault your son is a chubby chaser. I was only asking the question that had to be asked

*sigh*

It appears the Mountain Bike forum has managed to alienate another fine member.

*sigh*

It appears the Mountain Bike forum has managed to alienate another fine member.

I'd argue it was more of a self-alienation.

I'd argue it was more of a self-alienation.
I agree. My comment was a little tongue-in-cheek.

I agree. My comment was a little tongue-in-cheek.

oops. good, I thought your judgment was slipping.

Can you explain the quality/rice ratio litte further? I am unclear on what the rice has to do with it.

lol. Well, you see.... the quality/rice ratio is very important. Every MTB'er should consider how much rice is provided with your brand new mtb purchase. I was surprised to see that so many "mainstream" companies neglect this aspect!! Unless you carry a bag of rice around with you on those trails, you're dead meat. EVERY experienced biker knows this. In time, you'll realize it too.

..In other news today, krntourist voted to halt the proliferation of automatic smileys, citing it as a "serious threat to American values." More on this at 11.

+10000000000

Mr. Smashy get to work!;) :p :D


Why is it always me that has to get to work.;)

Something is in the works, so sit tight.

lol. Well, you see.... the quality/rice ratio is very important. Every MTB'er should consider how much rice is provided with your brand new mtb purchase. I was surprised to see that so many "mainstream" companies neglect this aspect!! Unless you carry a bag of rice around with you on those trails, you're dead meat. EVERY experienced biker knows this. In time, you'll realize it too.

..In other news today, krntourist voted to halt the proliferation of automatic smileys, citing it as a "serious threat to American values." More on this at 11.

So the rice is a survival tool, per se. It can be both a source of energy and a way to mark your trail. I see. Quite ingenious.

I wouldn't suggest marking your trail with UNCOOKED rice, as it may kill little animals/birds. Always COOK your rice!

Tip- survivor rice should NOT be rinsed before cooking, because you'll want it to be really sticky & globby so you can wad it into shape to fit in your pocket.

I always learn so much here.

I've really been sold on IBEX bikes since I bought one a few years back. It's my opinion that their bikes are unmatched in value. The quality:price ratio is awesome. You should check it out. If you can catch one of their frequent sales, you'll definitely find a steal.

http://ibexbikes.com/Bikes-Hub-MTB.html

I would NOT buy an Ibex. They're cheaply made in China and have very poor after purchase service. If you have a local Performance Bike shop I would check the bikes out there before you go buying something online. Performance is known to price match even their online competitors (hint: check out RScycle.com before you go)

I agree Ibex are poorly made.