Mountain Biking - entry level MTB - advice

I posted in the hybrid section as I wasnt sure if I wanted a mtb or hybrid and I think I've decided on a mtb only because thats what I've ridden all my life and feel more comfortable on one. Though Ill mostly be riding it on the road to help cross train for running- i dont really mind if its harder to pedal onroad. :p I know I could put road tires on if I wanted, but I may end up riding it to my college (which is down a busy road with no sidewalks and grass/dirt on either sides).

Locally, there seems to be 3-4 major bike shops who all have their supporting bike: specialized, giant, trek and one has a mix of giant and specialized.

I'm on a budget (seeing as im in college). But im not wanting to go super cheap, but rather the best components/features for the price.

I'm really leaning towards the Giant revel 1 right now ($440) at my local shop.

I could use some help if there is a better option or just a confirmation from you guys that the Revel 1 is a great bike to start with.

:) thanks in advance

That's probably the best you're gonna do at that price point.

Hmm.. okay :thumb:

being devils advocate- Would it be worth putting maybe another $100 and get a different bike? It seems to be a huge jump from the Revel 1 to the 0 :rolleyes::p
What other options would you or anyone suggest using the hypothetical additional $100

Or: if I could upgrade any components on the Revel 1.. which would be a good choice? I've always been the one to upgrade parts as I have money to do so (whether on my computer, high end electric R/C car) :) I like seeing the change over time as parts are upgraded too

Given your uses, I wouldn't spend money upgrading anything except maybe the saddle if you happen to find it uncomfortable. Take that $100 and buy a Brooks B17. A bike that's $100 more won't be much better. You'd have to get to the $800-$900 price point to really start seeing noticeable differences IMHO.

Thanks for the help and advice. Helps a great bit :) Maybe I can talk them down a small bit because the 2012 models are just around the corner..

I've had the Revel 1 for about 2 months earlier this year and did some upgrades. IMO the fork upgrade I did was the most noticeable. The stock fork really is a POS. I upgraded to a $175 Rockshox Tora and that transformed the ride. I also upgraded the front brake to a 180mm BB7 but I didn't notice too much of a difference. Considering the BB7 are selling for $50 it's probably worth it. From my experience I suggest you upgrade the fork. But keep in mind that the Revel is an entry level bike and it's slow! Now I ride a leftover 2009 Trance X3, and must I say I was instantly faster the day I sit on that Trance. So the other recommendation is to watch out for clearances like this leftover new Trance X3 I got about a month ago for $1200.

Hmm.. thanks for that input- I did ask them about upgrading the fork to something that could lock out. I was told about $200 for the upgrade

Im thinking now to buy more of an on-road hybrid bike, but something that isnt a road/race bike. I like the Roam 1- havent ridden one... but like the looks and components seem good.

Yesterday I rode a Cannondale Quick 4- I loved it! :love::D but it was a L not XL :(
It would also set me back $600+tax :rolleyes:

Now I feel back where i was in the beginning unsure exactly which I want.

Check out this bike on www.bikesdirect.com (http://www.bikesdirect.com). Twice the bike for the same price:

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/windsor_cliff4900.htm

Oh no...not again...

LOL! I know a scam when I see one.. Especially from a user with 4 posts.. :rolleyes:
A local bike shop is best- get service, warranty, etc. :thumb:

LOL! I know a scam when I see one...

Evidently you don't. BD is legit - generic lightweight AL frames with better components than name-brand frames at comparable price points. A viable option for anyone with nominal bike-mech skills.

Ive never worked on a bike (except replacing a front flat). A college student who wouldnt have time to work on a bike (school and work).

Oh well.

If you can fix a flat, you can put the bike together. The upgrade in components is well worth the hour it may take you to assemble the bike. It is already 90% assembled when delivered.

I love how someone's knowledge about a topic is based on the number of posts they may have on some internet forum :rolleyes:

Actually you've got it backwards - the people who have been engaged in the activity for a long time (and therefore generally know more about it) tend to have high post counts as a matter of course. Some of these guys have forgotten more than you and I will probably ever know about this sport - a few have been racing competitively for decades. :rolleyes:

i'm gonna stick my nose in someone else's business real quick....

i think kplender was referring to the OP's remark up there in post #10 about how he only has 4 posts, insinuating that since he only has 4 posts, he must not know anything.

ok, taking my nose out of someone else's business now...back to the thread

^ Apologies to kplender if that was his intent, I may have been a victim of his ambiguity. :innocent:


i'm gonna stick my nose in someone else's business real quick....

Isn't that what internet forums are all about? :D

Apology accepted. Yes, I was referring to OP's post in #10.