Mountain Biking - (Another) Bike recomendation?

I'm starting to get into some minor trials type stuff, but my bike just isn't suited to it. So, I'm in the market for a HT. If possible, I'd like the bike to double as a trail bike. I weigh almost nothing, so I'm not terribly concered about wear. Should I be?

Anyway, I really don't know where to start. It seems all the trials related sites I went to had no real consistancy to them. Do I need a single speed? 8 speed? Is having a suspension fork a really bad idea even though I'm a lightweight? Do any manufacturers make a ready-to-go bike that might suit me?

Its your choice. You can start with a normal 26" to get used to the movements. Gearing isn't required but it does help. Planet X makes an exeptional frame but tend to be a lot. I know Norco has a fully made bike available.

Really evrything you ask is preference. You will want to start out with something close to a mtb until you figure out what you prefer on a trials bike.

Cortina makes a sweeeet steel ht that can be used for trials or dj. You should check it out.

Cortina Cycles (http://www.cortinacycles.com/)

As apposed to gearing, if you will only be using it for trials then I would say single speed. If you plan on jumping, dual slalom or MTN-X or any long rides I would say get one with a cassette.
8 speed would work fine but 9 is easier to find these days.

I always run a suspension fork. Personal preferance.


:beer:

Thanks for replies.

DBD: Did you drop the travel on the fork or just leave it at the default?

DBD: Did you drop the travel on the fork or just leave it at the default?

:confused: Did not mentioned anything about the travel on my forks.

All my forks are at their full travel with the shortest being 130mm(about 5") .

:beer: :beer:

Monty makes Trials Specific bicycles, but they'd be awkward anywhere else. A lot of trials riders I've seen forgo the suspension forks to say weight. Many start with a small mtb, and convert it to suit their needs.

L8R

They also forgo the front suspension because it is unreliable in how it reacts compared to rigid :)