Mountain Biking - Mountain bike to Afghanistan

Hi (I'm new). I'm sure that this has been covered, but I needed some quick advice, if someone could help.

My son is in Afghanistan, and he wants me to send him a mountain bike. He's 6'4" and weighs probably 265...

Can anyone recommend the toughest, biggest and strongest bike I could buy online, and less than $1,000US, if possible?

Your recommendations appreciated...

I would probably check out a 29er for someone his size, and a hardtail for durability and less fuss. For your budget, check out the Jamis Durango (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/hardtails/index.html), and the Gary Fisher Mamba (http://fisherbikes.com/bike/model/mamba), or the Marin Alpine Trail (http://www.marinbikes.com/2009/us/bikes/specs_alpine_trail_29er.php) 29er. Of these, the Jamis has the best drivetrain.

For outright bulletproof-ness, you might check out the single-speed Surly Karate Monkey (http://surlybikes.com/km_comp.html). 29" wheels, steel frame instead of alum, and very few components to break as it is single-speed. Might be a bit pricey, and hard to find.

I know I'll also get crap for this, but check out the Motobecane Fantom 29Pro SL (http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom29pro_SL.htm) from Bikesdirect. It's got a much nicer fork and a much better drivetrain, but not the same reputation as the other brands. It's a lot of value though.

Edit: Also found the Kona Unit (http://www.konaworld.com/09_unit_u.cfm). Chromoly frame, 2-spd 29er. And it's in your price-range.

All great suggestions above. This gets my vote: http://www.rei.com/product/784911

the new 2010 Specialized Hardrock Comp...
29 in ch wheels
big tube aluminum frame
disc brakes...
front suspension...
.
.
brand new $600
.
i am adding one to my inventory soon! awesome bike! (i am 6'6" 275)

Salutes to your son.

All great suggestions above. This gets my vote: http://www.rei.com/product/784911

Not a 29er.

I just shopped for a MTB for my 6'1" 215lb son to take to college and most people and the local shop recommended a 29er for big guys.

Not a 29er.

I just shopped for a MTB for my 6'1" 215lb son to take to college and most people and the local shop recommended a 29er for big guys.

read the original post...

he is 6'4" 265... yeah just a little guy (sorry if I sounded a little buttheady) wasn't tryin to be mean.

but 6'4" 265 IS a BIG GUY...

get the Hardrock 29 ("freekin sweet!" Peter Griffin)

Can you tell us where in afghanistan he is?

I ask because I'm in afghanistan right now and had considered shipping a bike over before I left the states. I didn't end up shipping my bike over because of logistical issues, but I think I've got a good idea on what would work.

Theres constant blowing dust/sand in the summer and of the many bikes I've seen on my base, most of their drivetrains are being destroyed. There's also probably nowhere he can store it inside, so it will be subject to the elements at all time.

It also may be difficult, base dependant, for your son to ship the bike back once he's done. Trust me...when its time to leave, people will ditch just about anything here to get home easier/quicker!

I don't mean to discourage you from sending your son a bike by any means. I would just hate to see a $1000 bike get either destroyed by or had to be left in afghanistan. I think your best bet would be to find a used, but reliable, steel frame bike that could be left in country once your son leaves.

Hope this helps! Feel free to PM me with any questions.

Not a 29er.

I just shopped for a MTB for my 6'1" 215lb son to take to college and most people and the local shop recommended a 29er for big guys.

This one is very well.