Big Pete 1982

I'm a clyde roadie and I know almost nothing about mountain bikes. From the research I've done and based on the riding I will be doing as well as the budget I have, I've decided I want a hardtail 29er.

Now here's my question. I'm 6'6. I found what appears to be a good deal on craigslist for a Giant Talon 29er for $450. The only drawback is it is a large, not an X-large like I would like. Is the difference between these frame sizes that significant? I'm going to try to go see this bike this weekend if it's still available, but I have to drive a ways to go see it. If it's not worth my time, I'd like to know. What do you guys think? Any advice? What should I look for/beware of?

Here's the ad I'm looking at:

Giant 29'er Hardtail

WestPablo

I would instinctively say, it's too small. However, you'll never know until you mount it and give it a test ride!

offrdmania

Im 6'2" and I ride an XL. A large was too small for me. I imagine you could go with a large but you would have to most likely move the saddle way back, add a longer seat post, put a super long stem on it, all to make up for the short top tube and the shorter head tube and seat tube. I would search for an XL if possible, I dont think a large is worth the hassle.