MTBing for dummies

[SFLiz]

Ask your LBS if they can put one together for you. I had a LBS assemble for me a starter MTB from a team kit he had laying around when I lived on the east coast in 2009 - my very first bike. The frame (Giant Rincon) is basically nothing more than a parts holder. Like you said, MTB frames are heavy - disc brakes add weight. RockShox front suspension, hardtail. Real basic bike. Few things I added that I really like are the pedals and lockout suspension button on handlebars. The remote lockout is so useful, easy to access with a quick push of the thumb. This way when I'm climbing on something a little rockier, my energy is less dissipated. It was such a nice feature the LBS added that I didn't know enough to appreciate it until I got out and rode. I also added some Shimano dual sided clipless/clip pedals and these have been great for more tricky terrain, especially as a beginner MTBiker. You're more experienced a rider so you probably won't need this.

The shop charged me $1500 and it's held up as a solid MTB. I've rode on some slightly more technical terrain than I was comfortable with both here in the US and in Australia with it. I just had a professional Retul fitter analyze the fit and my form on it and he said it was set up correctly for me. I looked into reselling it at one point to put toward my road bike purchase but what I would get for it is not enough for me to let it go. It's a keeper. I tried a 29er at one point and I didn't like the feel, probably mostly because I'm short. I just didn't feel confident on it. I like being lower to the ground on my MTB. Less distance to take a fall, tuck and roll too.