Lobs616

I am just getting back into riding. Doing hard packed trails daily. I was going to get a Hybrid but the people on that forum felt that a MTB would be best. I have to keep it under $300, I wish that was not so. I have 3 options right now and was looking for some opinions.

2005 Giant Boulder SE $200
2009 Specialized HardRock $285
2000 Giant Yukon $275

The Yukon has the best component set but it is the oldest. Boulder seems to have the next best set but the HardRock is the newest bike. Any thoughts are appreciated.

samburger

Hardrock definitely. Giant Boulder's are on the same level as box store bikes. Yukons are good but that sucker is old. Hardrock's are good solid starter bikes. It can last you a long time of hard XC riding if you maintain it properly.

Lobs616

So, I lost out on the Hardrock which was too bad. Now I am working on a GF Hoo Koo e Koo for $275, it is a 2000 model. I like the components as they are Deore but the bike is older and if you have seen the 2000 models it is red and yellow, not sure if I can handle the McDonalds look. So, now the question is 2005 Boulder SE, 2000 Yukon or 2000 Hoo Koo e Koo?

samburger

Definitely the HKEK. $1000 bike vs. $400 bike. And I have a 2001 red & yellow Gary Fisher Wahoo. Not as much yellow & a little more black, but the same basic color scheme. Very much worth it for the money.

wheelsets101

I agree, GF is definitely more bike for the money and you'll forget all about the color after a few great rides.