Trek vs. Raleigh
 

I am new to mountain biking and am looking to buy a bike but not spend an insane amount of money. I went to a bike shop and they recommended the Trek 3700 and The Raleigh Mojave 2.0 because they are both two great bike brands and not that expensive. Can someone please give me some advice about these bike brands and the bikes in particular. thanks a lot.

Chris

Both are quality brands. Spec wise they look pretty much the same. My advice is go down and ride them both back to back a couple times and pick the one that feels better to you.

Its strange, when I started looking for a bike, I encountered alot of Raleigh bikes that seemed to be of really high quality, which pricing in the $1000's. But at the same time, the local Canadian Tire sells $200 Raleighs with quality just above those damned Supercycles.

'Tis strange indeed....

Trek is okay, but they often cost more than they should, and if you're really big on keeping your bike looking sexy, then watch it, because Treks with gloss paint chip easy.

What's so strange about that? Most every company makes a wide selection of models ranging from about $250-$3000. Just like toyota making cars that range from $12,000 to $50,000.

I was in the same boat as you a few weeks back debating between those two exact models. I test rode both and liked the raleigh better. For about $70 more (at the LBS I bought from) you can upgrade to the Mojave 4.0 and get some better equipment, but this may not be of much concern to you. For the exact specs check out the following:

http://www.raleighusa.com/items.asp?...=11&itemid=335

and

http://www2.trekbikes.com/bikes/bike...d=1014600&f=18

Gary Fisher is great for you budget, thats what i got

+1 for Gary Fisher. I just got a Marlin last week. It is a beautiful thing.

In my opinion i'd go for the Trek, because I love mine and I've had no problems with it in the past 2 years.

Trek has about the best warranty in the industry....buy what feels best to you. I did based on the service I always receive from my LBS, they have not failed me yet.