Hey all, this is my first time here. I am looking to buy a Hard Tail in the price range of $700-1000. I am a heavy guy (300lbs, 5'10")...I rode a lot back in the days (when I was in shape, hehe) Well I want to get back to it but I want a nice strong built bike for my weight. I will be riding mainly flat fire trails and bike paths for quite awhile till I can drop some lbs. Any ideas on bikes? Any info would be awesome....and Thank You!

I just seen the Kona Hoss...Any reviews on that bike and other suggestions on other bikes?

Best thing to do is go to some local bike shops and tell them what you're telling us. Try out a few bikes, Specialized, Fisher, Giant, Trek, etc and decide which one you like best. You're probably looking at a mid range hardtail and I would suggest disc brakes, preferably hydraulics. There are so many options at your price range. It would be impossible for US to tell you what bike is best.

Kona's are good bikes. I have two. The frames are overbuilt for strength. Stronger wheels and spoke count help too. But on the Hoss they equipt it with sufficient wheels because it was meant for the larger rider.

Go and test ride one!

I started mtb'ing a whole lot heavier than you. I bought a Trek 6000 in 1999...It was bombproof and helped me shed about 140 lbs. The only thing I ever had to do was true the wheels once in a while. I did swap out the fork and get one that could handle my weight. Marzocchi MX Pro with air assist I think. They still make the 6000 and an upgraded bike the 6700. I have since moved on to other better bikes but that 6000 is still doing duty with a buddy of mine in TN....check them out. They are strong bikes and don't cost an arm and a leg

The Hoss is made for you, or anyone who rides like a hack and breaks stuff (is there one in my future???). I say go for it if you like the ride.

well 300lbs, I would think any bike should be ok if your not jumping it. I wouldn't get a severly overbuilt bike... there are 250+ lb dudes riding 20lb roadbikes all the time.

Awesome...Thanks all for the info. I will keep in touch with ya and let ya know which bike I go with.. Thanks Again....GRATS on the weight loss Hot Rod that is awesome.