Originally Posted by
d2create
lofnsjoke, thanks for the detailed post... exactly what I was looking for. And with links to boot!
The results turned up in my search were kind of outdated.
I can get pretty much any major brand here. All you suggested and more. We even have one of bike direct's retail stores but they get horrrrrrrible reviews for their customer service.
I'm near downtown so lots of shops to choose from... from mom & pop to big chains like Bike Barn and Performance and REI.
Out of the ones you listed, do you have a preference (brand or model)? Or is it 6 of one, half a dozen of the other? I don't know mtn bike components either, so it's all greek to me.
Thanks!
I wouldn't worry about components since all bikes around the $500 pricepoint have similar specifications, and any variation will not be very noticeable.
I'd say go to the lbs and try out a few bikes and see which one feels comfortable.
If you want a subjective evaluation, I'd say get the Hardrock. Back when I was looking for an entry level hardtail, I tried out a bunch of Trek offerings, as well as some KHS, Norco, and Gary fisher bikes. I ended up with the Hardrock because it felt the best, and it has an excellent reputation for being able to take abuse.