Hi, I’ve been looking into getting my first real mountain bike for a couple months and I’ve done test rides on all of the Trek, Specialized, Gary Fisher, Iron Horse and Giant bikes that are in the $500.00 to $800.00 price range.

After riding several of these bikes multiple times I came to the conclusion that I definitely like the Giant geometry the best but now I have to decide between the Giant Iguana and the Rainier.

I can get the Iguana for $549.99 and the Rainier for $779.00. I’ve ridden both of them up and down some very steep single track and I really noticed the difference with the Rainier’s brakes, derailleurs and fork but I’m not sure if it is worth the extra $230.00. I also weighed both the bikes and the Rainier was 28.5 pounds while the Iguana was 32 pounds so the Rainier is a good 3.5 pounds lighter.

Do you guys think that the difference between the Iguana and the Rainier is worth an extra $230.00?


Thanks, Jeremy

yes, you said yourself it rides better, so get whats better, that 230 will make a difference.

That’s what I would definitely do if I knew for sure that the bike’s geometry would fit me for more then a couple of years but I’m only 16 and I will probably still grow some more so the bike might not fit me as well geometry wise 3 to 4 years down the road. Do you still think it would be worth it to buy the Rainier or should I think more about the Iguana and buy a higher end bike when I’m in my 20s?

If you noticed the difference on a test ride, you will only notice it more and more as you ride more and more. If you decide on the cheaper bike, you will forever wish you had spent a few bucks more. If you decide on the more expensive bike, you will forever have more confidence in your bike.

3 to 4 years down the road either of these bikes will need replacement or complete refurbishment so its likely you'll be buying another bike by the time your 20 anyway. Both these bike are decent machines, obviously the rainier is lighter. Personally I buy the best bike I can afford and in your place I'd choose the rainier. Upgrades post purchase are always more expensive than just buying the bike you want. Let us know what you choose :)

Thanks for all your replies. After doing a little more research online I found out that I was really test riding the ’04 Rainier and not the ’05 model. So, I’m going to go back and try to ride the ’05 model and then do some more comparing before I make my final decision. The sale for the Rainier’s $779.00 price will go off today but I think I’d rather pay more and not buy the ’05 model without riding it.


Thanks again, Jeremy