IAmChris

I'm new to the sport, but I'm hooked. I've been going to a state park with some pretty difficult trails, and my bike (which will not be mentioned to save me from ridicule) is not holding up.

I know this is something I want to invest some money into. So, I'm ready to buy a quality bike, but I have no clue where to start. I've been riding more difficult and technical trails, so i know i need something with full suspension, but I don't know what's good and what's not. Can someone point me in the right direction? If the bike is something that will last me and I won't have to keep upgrading, I don't mind spending up to a grand.

mtnbiker66

For a grand you may want to look at a good freeride hardtail. A P-bike a or something like a Transition TOP.

Bikebros

Hi,

First step is figure out what type of riding you will be doing most - like 90% of the time. That will help you narrow down your search.

I'm assuming from your post that you are doing cross-country riding. Also assuming then that you aren't hucking off jumps or drops. If your budget is under $1000, I'd recommend a hardtail - a good hardtail is better than a cheap full suspension. I wouldn't be too overly concerned about the brand of bike but I would get it at a local bike shop, not a box store. Some box-store bikes look like good deals but really are junk. I own a bike shop, so of course I want you to support the local bike shop.

The bike shop you visit should be able to walk you through the selections of bikes. If you're a big guy, perhaps they'd lead you towards a bike with a pretty tough fork like a Tora and strong wheels. If you're light and don't have fantasies of tossing yourself off jumps then obviously they'll point you towards something built a little lighter. My point is that there are too many variables to easily point you in any direction regarding what bike to purchase. Go to a LBS and test out some bikes. If the staff are dicks, then go to another LBS until you feel you are being treated well and look for sensible advise and a good fit. Dont focus on the brand of the bike - bikes are a bit like shoes - maybe you like Nike for how they look but something else may be more comfortable.

see ya.

mtnbiker66

Crap......I read "State"park" as "Skate" park. Disregard my last post.

z415

Going into your LBS is the way to go. Make sure you do a lot of test rides - take the fork over curbs, work the brakes, and shift everything. If they aren't patient in serving you and fitting you to a bike, then they don't deserve your business.

catatonic

yep, if you are doing the state park....XC (editL XC = Cross Country) should serve you well. For $1000, you can get a decent FS...just be sure to look at the hardtails anyways. Some of those hardtails are very nice bikes in that price range.

stapfam

For a grand -you will not get an FS bike that works as the marketing hype will lead you to believe. There is a cut of price point and below that you are buying a compromise. That price is a lot higher than a grand.

You will be better off getting a good rate Hardtail. Plenty of manufacturers out there but before you choose- First find yourself an LBS. (Local bike shop) Make certain it is MTB orientated and carries a good enough range to give you a choice.

Points to look out for- that is up to you but the forks should be of a good grade- Not a cheap low end manufacturer that is not rebuildable (Rockshox and Marzochi spring to mind as sensible). Drive train must be at least Deore but better if it is LX or XT. Brakes do not have to be Disc As "V" brakes work very well, but discs are on most bikes, and then look at the fit. If you are not comfortable on it- Then don't buy it.