Mountain Biking

[Rebecca916]

I am looking to take up mountain biking. Since I am new I have no idea what I should buy...I don't want to spend over $2500.

[SadieKate]

It kinda depends on what kind of mountain biking you're going to take up. Perhaps you could be more specific? Where and what do you plan to ride? So much of the choice is based on the locale.

BTW, welcome and tell us more about yourself.

[sundial]

Hi Rebecca! Glad to see you here at TE where wise women rule.

Ok, 'bout your biking. Will you be doing alot of downhill stuff? Cross country? Racing? Jumping logs? Noodling to work?

After you have figured out where you want to ride, then you need to ask yourself if you want a hardtail or full suspension. For many beginners, they like to go with the hardtail bike because it's usually lighter, cleaner lines, and a little easier on the pocketbook--not to mention a little less to maintain mechanically. You can get decent components on a hardtail starting at $1000 or so.

If you plan on riding in Whistler, or you'll ride trails with logs, rock gardens, roots and the like, you may want to consider a full suspension mountain bike. The suspension will soften the ride but you are looking at a little more weight to the bike as well as maintaining the shocks. Also, the price may be a little higher than the hardtail version.

Whatever type of bike you decide, go for what fits YOU. Take your time researching the bikes, talk to the mechanics at your local bike shop, and ask lots. Don't feel pressured to buy a certain bike because it's been on the showroom floor for awhile. Buy what is in line with your budget and what feels good to you.

There are some good articles and reviews about mtb's in Mountain Bike Action. www.mbaction.com

Good luck with your buying adventure. And when you do buy your bike, be sure to post pics of your new bike.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I am looking to take up mountain biking. Since I am new I have no idea what I should buy...I don't want to spend over $2500.

Hi Rebecca,
You might want to read and ask some stuff in the special Mountain Biking TE Forum as well:
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/forumdisplay.php?f=68

[Rebecca916]

I don't see myself doing jumps or much downhill riding so a hardtail suspension seems like it would be best for me. Thank you for all the information. I will be visiting bike shops this weekend to get a good fit and more of an idea of what I need.

[Rebecca916]

The LBS was very helpful! I was surprised by all the options and features available. There is a lot to consider, but it should help make my buying online easier!

[Zen]

Oh dear.
That's a major faux paux to go to the LBS for advice then buy online.
Besides, when you buy a bike at the LBS you're buying more than a bike.
You're buying service for that bike as well.
If you need to take that bike you bought on line in to the shop for service it could be a bit embarrassing.

[Rebecca916]

The local shop seemed fine with helping me...I even brought specs to a bike I found online (https://www.dynacraftstore.com/sonom...products_id=60)
and they seemed to think that it was good for me. I don't plan on riding to much downhill and going over a lot of bumps/jumps etc. I am going to order it today since there is free shipping right now. I will let you know how it all turns out. Thank you for all the advice!