Mountain Biking - Rockhopper or Gary Fisher Marlin?

Hey guys and gals,

Is the Specialized Rockhopper or the Gary Fisher Marlin a better bike for the money? Does the Marlin have better components and better geometry for XC? Does the marlin have quicker steering? I have read good reviews and test rode both of them. Marlin seemed a bit more responsive and quicker braking. However, I am new at this and do not feel qualified to judge the fine characteristics fo each bike. I would appreciate any opinions and felp you offer...Thanks

Spigot

i would go with the rockhopper. even though its all up to your preference in feel, the rockhopper is a better bike and is more XC oriented. try checking them out at your LBS

Hopper

Another for the Rockhopper because of better components. As far as the geometry goes, just go with what you like better. Compare what handlebars you like most. See how close you knees are to the handlebars when pedaling on both bikes.

Checkout this webpage for more detailed fitting instructions: http://www.extreme.nas.net/features/start/fit.shtml

Good luck!

-Garrett

Hey guys and gals,

Is the Specialized Rockhopper or the Gary Fisher Marlin a better bike for the money? Does the Marlin have better components and better geometry for XC? Does the marlin have quicker steering? I have read good reviews and test rode both of them. Marlin seemed a bit more responsive and quicker braking. However, I am new at this and do not feel qualified to judge the fine characteristics fo each bike. I would appreciate any opinions and felp you offer...Thanks

Spigot

Thanks guys for your opinions. I might lean more torward the Rockhopper also because when I rode the Marlin, for some reason, my feet kep touching rubbing back of the front tire when turning. I think the Rockhopper might have a litte longer geometry.

spigot

Thanks guys for your opinions. I might lean more torward the Rockhopper also because when I rode the Marlin, for some reason, my feet kep touching rubbing back of the front tire when turning. I think the Rockhopper might have a litte longer geometry.

spigot

yeah... just like me.. me leaning for rockhopper as well.. but now it comes to which model.. they have so many different models.. grr :mad:

Guys,

What do you think of the Giant Yukon? Mountain Bike Action magazine gave it a real good review for an entry level bike.

Spigot

Thank you for some good suggestions on giant bikes. Giant Yukon is the one which makes most of your off-road adventures with this smooth riding trail machine. Take the edge off the rough stuff with Suntour suspension fork and powerful disc brakes. You can go wrong with either one. Try them both and get the one that feels the best.
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Jimmy Wales
For trolling lures (http://www.scentblazer.com)

I had a 06 hopper. outgrew it but it was a great bike. I have this rig now http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_comp_xi.htm Im not sold on the bontrager parts either that come on the trek/gf