Mountain Biking - Newby - need advise

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tobybul
08-22-09, 08:46 PM
Well, I'm a newby in the forum. I joined b/c I am interested in getting in to cycling. I'm in my mid-50's and fairly active usually running and versa climbing. I'd like to get into trail biking probably with a mtn bike.

At this time, I am just looking for a used bike. I have been chkg craigslist and noticed a few name-brand bikes for under $100 - Trek Elite GS? Giant Acupulco? Raleigh? I don't want to put too much in to it right now in case I may not get to get too serious. Yeah, I know you probably can't get much for less than $100 considering serious bikers spend upwards of $1000 for their bikes. Below are the CL links to some available in my area.

http://grandrapids.craigslist.org/bik/1331550171.html
http://grandrapids.craigslist.org/bik/1326133284.html

Any input on these and in general would be appreciated.

TwinCam
08-22-09, 08:53 PM
Those bikes are both nice but also both for tall guys.

As long as you are tall then either will be nice for trail riding.

Pro-tip: Those old steel frames will often accommodate today's high-volume light weight tires. Such as the wtb mutano raptor 2.4". This will go a long way towards bringing the bike's ride up to modern standards.
tobybul
08-22-09, 09:48 PM
Thanks, TC. I don't know the frame sizes of those bikes yet as I have not seen them. I am 5'8 and I believe I need a 17"-18" frame. I recently got a used Schwinn High Plains for my boy to use for school. He is 6'0 and its a 19". Seems to work well for him.

BTW, I'm in Grand Rapids MI. theres a few bike trails here like in many other place I'm sure - Cannonsburg, Yankee springs, etc. I visited a few bike shops last week and got some lights for the old Schwinn I also just got, a 3-speed vintage. Had the tubes replaced by Kentwood Schwinn.

TwinCam
08-22-09, 10:00 PM
Im 5 8 myself. You are right on track with 17"-18" sizing. I advise keep looking until you can find that range. Or a "medium".
tobybul
08-22-09, 10:17 PM
I'm also thinking of a hybrid but I don't think I'm gonna find too many of those used.
tobybul
08-23-09, 07:54 AM
TC, after seeing one of your posts in another thread, I checked out bikesdirect.com. Do they sell only Motobecanes? Where are these bikes made? What do you think about the Motobecane 2009 MTB
400HT for $299?