tntom
07-20-08, 02:33 PM
Looking for a a good entry level mtn bike. Where would you start looking.
Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Entry level Mtn bike
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Tom Stormcrowe
07-20-08, 02:44 PM
Specialized Hard Rock Sport......
Alathea
07-20-08, 02:45 PM
Early older edition, or the newer ones. The new ones I think run around mid 300 to 400's, mine was 125 off of Craigslist.
bdinger
07-20-08, 02:47 PM
One place: Specialized. I'm very biased here, I admit, but I purchased a 2007 Hardrock Sport almost exactly two years ago for $350. I've done some work to it, sure, but mostly due to either lack of proper maintenance (chain, cassette, BB, crankset) or 3,000 miles under my 300 lb+ butt (cracked rear rim). Mine's undergoing reconstruction, soon to be reborn with a handbuilt Salsa Gordo rear wheel with a LX hub, Thomson seatpost and LX rear deraileur.
It's my second favorite bike ever, and if/when I purchase another MTB it's either going to be a Specialized 29er or a Surly karate monkey.
Giant makes good entry level MTB's, and I hear those who are Trek/Gary Fisher fans as well. Try to find a '08 model on closeout, most '09s are going up in price from any manufacturer.
It's my second favorite bike ever, and if/when I purchase another MTB it's either going to be a Specialized 29er or a Surly karate monkey.
Giant makes good entry level MTB's, and I hear those who are Trek/Gary Fisher fans as well. Try to find a '08 model on closeout, most '09s are going up in price from any manufacturer.
tntom
07-20-08, 09:08 PM
Thanks!
wrk101
07-21-08, 05:40 AM
Craigs List. The list in Knoxville is pretty active. I like my rigid Trek a lot. One huge advantage of used is that for you can get a bike with much better components for much less $$.
Stujoe
07-21-08, 05:42 AM
+1 on the Hardrock. I have customized mine into a nice commuter and love it.
bautieri
07-21-08, 06:10 AM
Component wise all entry level bikes are going to be quite similar with differences being in the geometry and cosmetic appeal. Rather than recommending Raleigh’s (I have to be different :D), I would instead recommend you make your way to a couple bike shops. Ask your questions and find the bike shop that is most willing to work with you. Then test ride everything in your price range, find the bike that makes your heart race, the one that screams "Ride me tntom"! You might even find that the perfect bike for you isn't a mountain bike at all, be sure to look at some hybrids (flat bar road bikes) if you don't plan on riding anything more aggressive than a gravel path.