Agent_J

I need a bit more feedback before I make my decision.

I test rode all of these, the Gary Fisher Genesis Wahoo $419, the Hardrock Sport $379 and the Rockhopper $520 I am not "skilled" enough in the Components realem to even begin to compare which is which and what is what.

As you can see, I'm looking for a good entry level hardtail in the $400 or so range but willing to spend the extra $$ if justifiable.

Anybody out ther that own either of these bikes with any contructive info would be very helpful.

The only feedback that I got so far is from the LBS owner that stated he has ridden Specialized bikes all his life but with the price range that I had in mind that he would recommend the Fisher. This come from a guy that seems to carry a mjority of Specialized but likes to stock the Genesis because, and only because of the Genesis frame. What's up with that?

I know not to believe what everyone tells me but I am counting on "Majority Rules" in this thread.

Anyway, thanks for your time.

BTW, all the bikes rode real well. The fish was probably the smoothest but the Rockhopper had the tougher feel to it.

Muddyrookie

I have a Gary Fisher Hardtail and I love mine. I think that any of those bikes would be a good entry level bike. I naturally am biased towards Gary Fisher though so my vote goes to the Wahoo. I have never had a hint of a problem with mine and I have riden some tough stuff and taken some good falls.

IAMTB

I agree, I have a GF Tassajara and I couldn't be happier with it. It's going on 6 years and old and still going strong. I've ridden pretty hard and taken some good spills and it keeps right up with me. I'm also a heavier rider and that hasn't hindered the performance of the bike. I vote Gary Fisher.

Siu Blue Wind

I've got a Cake and I loooooove my bike. Mine is built in the USA (if that means anything) - some Fishers are built overseas. Although I baby my bike, it seems to be able to take the times that I am hard on it. Real good control, I like the stretched out position on it, I feel secure. I'm not sure if I would like a smaller compact on a squishy. Although on my hardtail (Kona), I am happy with it being kind of compact. A lot of people here on BF have Specialized so they will probably have a lot of influence. It really just depends on you. If you feel comfortable and in control on the bike, it's probably for you. I tried Specialized, but I guess my body type didn't work with it. Even the women's design in Specialized felt too small for me.

dtrain

I have a GF 'Big Sur' with Genesis frame that's about 4 years old. I'd pick one up again in a heartbeat. I had to shorten the stem, because it does stretch you a bit. But I think that's the whole idea. It's held up to a lot of abuse (I'm no lightweight).

Shorty

I have a Fisher Tass too, and I am also happy with mine. Fishers also tend to be a decent buy for the money. You still might want to take one more ride. Try doing some dumb things like wheelies, bunny hops, jumping curbs, hitting any bumps you can find etc. The best bike is the one that you can handle with the most ease, as well as fit.

mjsca07

I'm biased as well towards Gary Fisher. I bought a Tassajara not too long ago, and I love it. I love the feel of the bike, due to the "stretched out" feeling of the Genesis geometry. But like a lot of people here will tell you, and they told me when I asked the "what bike should I buy", go with what FEELS the best to you. Components are something to consider, but the bikes you're looking at all have pretty good components for a beginner bike. Go to the LBS, and ride every bike that you're considering. Ride them as long as you can. It would be a waste of your time and money to go with a bike that doesn't feel right to you. As for me, I didn't take my own advice. I was pretty much looking at the same bikes as you, but when I rode the Gary Fisher, I loved the way it felt, so I didn't bother riding any other bike. For your price range, you could probably go with a Marlin, which my buddy has. It's a great bike as well, and a step up from the Wahoo.