Recommend $200 Mountain Bike for friend
 

I have a friend who asked me to find a new mountain bike for $200 or less. Is there a bike out there there that you would recommend? I have no idea what to recommend at that price range. He is only a casual rider and can't afford to spend much. Any ideas? Thanks

Nothing new @ that price that I'd recommend. . Lots decent used in that range if you shop Craigslist.


-Roger

+1

You can't buy a mountain bike for $200 new. You might find a used one on craigs list that will be 100% better than settling for a cheap wal-mart bike. I found a 2005 specialized hardrock comp on craigs list for $50 bux. The kid had it all srewed up, but I fixed it for $0 and 2 hours of my time. Look for Specialized, Gary Fisher, Trek, Jamis, cannondale, diamondback, GT, Iron Horse....And the list goes on. You also need to find out what size bike you need. Walmart bikes are one size fits all...

Do not buy a cheap mongoose or schwinn !!! You will hate it later.

Thanks for the replies. I was pretty sure for $200 that you cannot find a new bike that is worth riding, but you guys confirmed it. I will tell my friend to check craigs list. I am very familiar with Specialized myself as I have a 2005 Rockhopper Comp and a 2008 Stumpjumper FSR Comp. Also I have an older GT Timberline bike that I use only in Winter. I know the Specialized Hardrocks aren't bad either, but I knew the cheapest new one would be about $350 at my LBS. I never used craig list, but now I will check it out as well as tell my friend to check it. Thanks

for 200 you get nothing, for 450 go get a new Specialized Hard Rock and accept the fact that is what you need to spend to get something off road worthy

Like others have posted you will not be able to buy a new trail worthy Mountain bike for $200. My opinion is that you need to spend a minimum of $600 for something that can be ridden off road regularly. Consider used if you know what you are buying. The other thing to remember is that low end bikes ($450-$800) typically have a coil spring with a rate of 145-180lbs. That is the user weight range where proper sag and available travel are capable. Forks specd on the lower end of this price range generally rely on friction for damping to keep costs down. When a larger rider rides on a undersprung fork and nonexistent damping they will feel like they are riding a pogo stick and not enjoy the sport. Things to consider. Not making any assumptions about your friends weight either.

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