Hi everyone, I am looking into purchasing a new mountain bike as a different way for cardio/exercise. I will be mainly trail riding (easy stuff for a new person) and sometimes ride to work. I went to a local bike shop and I asked about buying a new bike that would work out well for me. I told him i would like to buy something I really wont have to upgrade a lot, and gave him my price range.

He then showed me a 2013 Trek Mamba. I rode it around the parking lot, found the seat was a tad too high, and he said he could cut it down for me. The bike felt pretty nice, except the seat was a bit hard, but the store owner said, that's something you get used to with riding. the only thing he suggested I buy with it, is a seat pack, that had spare inner tub pump, etc. So I asked what he wanted for it, he said $700, not including the seatpack. He did say they sell accessories at 20% off when buying a new bike. So my question ultimately: is $700 for it decent? It does have the 29inch tires, hydraulic breaks and felt nice and light when I rode it a bit.

I also asked why there wasn't a kickstand, he laughed at me, and said no kickstand for these bikes.

Thanks to anyone who reads and can help. I also did read the FAQ for new bikers, but didn't see anything related to asking about prices.

700 is decent for an entry level from an lbs

Cool, so I shouldn't have any problems with this model? From what I read it sounds like a great bike. And I know Police issue bikes are Treks.

Aye, the Mamba was originally priced at just over $1k new, and it's on the nicer end of Trek's 2013 line of entry hardtail 29ers. It sounds like a good deal to me.

Also see if they have any leftover 2013 X-Calibers as well. Most places in town are closing them out at around $999 and comes really well equipped for that price.

Kickstands have gone the way of dial phones! Enjoy the bike.

ftfy.