Mountain Biking - What bike should I get?

Looked at a couple models today. Only want to spend $300-400 as it is just for casual riding and some dirt trails. Here are the models I looked at..

2002 Diamondback Response $329
2002 Giant Rincon $339
2002 Giant Yukon $399

Any other reccomendations? Trek model?

TIA

also look at the Diamondback Topanga -$400.00

Add to the list bikes from Specialized, Gary Fisher, Trek, Haro....others. Test ride as many as you can. All will have about the same parts on em at this price range, find a shop you like to deal with as well!

L8R

diamondback all the way

If anyone disagrees, please jump in, but I do not see compelling differences in quality among the various brands in this price range, which I see as the minimum investment for a decent bicycle, as opposed to a *-Mart toy or a throwaway. Frame sizes and top tube lengths do vary, so make sure whatever you buy fits you comfortably. For the type of riding you envision, I recommend a hard-tail with better components over a full-suspension frame.

Originally posted by John E
If anyone disagrees, please jump in, but I do not see compelling differences in quality among the various brands in this price range, which I see as the minimum investment for a decent bicycle, as opposed to a *-Mart toy or a throwaway. Frame sizes and top tube lengths do vary, so make sure whatever you buy fits you comfortably. For the type of riding you envision, I recommend a hard-tail with better components over a full-suspension frame.

I'll jump in... to say I agree with you :)

Some will have slightly better components, but they'll all use components that function well enough. I've sat on a couple of cheap full-sussers and realised that a full-susser that I would want to ride is still well out of my price range. As to the hardtails... I'm very happy with my Giant but I couldn't say it's drastically better than the other brands - try them out and see what feels comfortable, sold from a shop you feel comfortable dealing with.

Richard

Look for a GT I Drive 5.0 should be around 500 a little high but for a nice design in a full suspension you just can't beat them.

If and when buying a GT, caveat emptor!!! GT is now owned by Pacific Bicycles and warranty is becoming a BIG issue. Older GT bicycles when purchased came with a lifetime warranty, Pacific will honor GT old warranties for only 1 year! I guess that IS the lifetime of one of their bikes!

I've received a couple of calls from GT owners calling everywhere trying to find out what to do and who to contact! I've also heard they are giving new Pacific/GT frames as warranty replacement regardless of model. Nothing like turning in a $1200 Zazkar frame and getting a mass-produced $300 bike! YIKES!
:rolleyes: :confused: :eek:

Ended up getting a Trek 4500. $400. Very happy with it. Rode the following: Diamondback Response, Giant Yukon and Rincon, Specialized Rockhopper, Trek 4300 and 4500.

Congrats, now go get it dirty and post some pictures!:beer:

Good for you rick! if you ever want to go riding you can always pm me ;)