General Cycling Discussion - I have $800 is the giant rainier my bike?

Hello folks!
This will be my first MTB, I do have a little BMX in my background but I'm 27 now...so thats way way back 8)
I'm looking at the giant rainier for 699.99. Good choice?
I want something I can get a little ruff with off-road and on here and there.
I liked the gary fisher bikes also but the giant spoke to me hehe.
I guess I wanted to know, is there a cheaper bike thats just as good that I maybe over looking?
Going friday morning to buy a bike (and ride them).
TY in advance!
Peace! :)

Definately can't go wrong with it. Hard to beat Giant in components for the price. I see it has Avid discs, they are fantastic. Also a Marzocchi fork. It's a really nice bike for the money.

Go for it .........!!!

Cool thnx all!
I have one last question before I go out the door to buy my bike. What kind of lbs should I buy from? The one I like so far is very small and has changed owners 2 times in 30years. Should I look for a big place (well known) to buy from?
Ty and everyone kick some dirt up and have a good one!:beer:

If the small one can come anywhere near your price, I'd say go for it. They'll probably be easier to get to know and give you good service in the future, and that's worth a lot. If they've been in business that long they must be doing something right!

Just use a lbs that has good service,knows bikes in and out, and that you feel comfortable with. You cant go wrong with Giant.But don't overlook the Gary Fishers.The Tassajara(sp?) should be in your range and is an excellent bike.My fatherinlaw has one and i just bought a Big Sur yesterday.I love the geometry on these they just fit me well. Anyway there are a lot of good bikes in your $range.Just find the one that fits you best. Just remember you can upgrade components but the frame has to fit >

Cool thnx guys!
I did like the gary fisher you mentioned until I sat on it....felt uncomfortable on it...something didn't feel right. I then went to try the giant and felt right at home as if the bike was part of me but I am going to go test ride some bikes today.
Take care all and have a wonderful day!:beer:

Coffee,

First of all, way to go on your great change of life.
Keep us posted on your physical results.

Second, I ride a Giant Rainier (third season) 1999? model.
I love it. It is a good solid frame that has served me well and rides nice. I haven't logged the mileage on it that I would like to but it has endured all the abuse I have given it. I will, as time goes on and components wear, upgrade to some better components, but the deore hasn't failed yet. The suspension and brake setup on the new models is a step above the Rockshok Judy and the Hayes disc brakes that are on mine and the price is the same as what I paid three years ago. You can't go wrong with a solid bike with disc brakes for $700. A bike definitely worth upgrading as time goes on.
Keep us posted if you get it and post a pic.

Originally posted by giantbiker
Coffee,

First of all, way to go on your great change of life.
Keep us posted on your physical results.

Second, I ride a Giant Rainier (third season) 1999? model.
I love it. It is a good solid frame that has served me well and rides nice. I haven't logged the mileage on it that I would like to but it has endured all the abuse I have given it. I will, as time goes on and components wear, upgrade to some better components, but the deore hasn't failed yet. The suspension and brake setup on the new models is a step above the Rockshok Judy and the Hayes disc brakes that are on mine and the price is the same as what I paid three years ago. You can't go wrong with a solid bike with disc brakes for $700. A bike definitely worth upgrading as time goes on.
Keep us posted if you get it and post a pic.
Right on!
I got it and loooove it so far!
I only have one problem with it, the rear disc might have a slight warp....just barely but enough to drive me nuts if I sit with my ear right next to the rotor I can hear scrape...scrape........scrape (repeats). The front one is perfect. I'm taking it in tomorrow but damn I don't want to leave it there :(