What Mountain bike would you recommend...?

Question

Im a 20 year old female looking to buy a mountain bike. I recently took a trip to Norway and did some pretty extreme mountain biking and now I feel hooked. The bike I used overseas was rented and I'm not sure what it was.

What I'm looking for in a mountain bike, is one that I can go through dirt and rocky trails and not worry about the bike holding up. I'm hoping to not have to spend over $300, I am after all still a beginner in this sport and just want a bike I can have some fun on and explore through the woods. Also remember I am a girl, about 5'6" and 120lbs so a heavy clunky bike might not be the best match.

thanks for anyone that can give me any advice on finding a suitable bike!

Answer 1

Visit your local bike shop to see what they have and get fitted for the right size.

Answer 2

Unfortunately you WILL need to spend more than $300... but not too much more.

Go look at hardtail bikes in the $400 range from Raleigh, KHS, Diamondback, Schwinn, and Mongoose at a BIKE SHOP. Avoid full suspension bikes unless you want to spend at least $900. There is a major difference between department store bikes with the same brand and those found at bike shops, so stay away from the likes of Walmart and Target.

When shopping, don't fall into the trap that one brand is "better" than another. Most bikes in your price range are going to be very similar BUT you'll also find that bikes from Trek and Specialized tend to have one level lower of components than other brands for the same price. If someone in a shop tells you that one brand is better just because of the name, turn around and walk out of the store- they are being dishonest.

This is actually a great time to buy a bike since liquidations are beginning to get rid of 2008 models. Try to visit at least 3 shops and don't buy until you have done your homework.

Answer 3

There is not much to do at that price range.

Check

www.bikesdirect.com

www.ibexbikes.com

www.forgebikes.com

Answer 4

Like others have said as well, go to your local BIKE SHOP to look at the different bikes there are and get fitted for the right size bike for you.  Usually, the sales people there know about different bikes they sell and will be able to help you get into the right bike.  As for wanting to spend no more than $300 on a bike, you may want to raise that a little more, depending on what you are looking for in a bike.  There really is no better brand just because of the name on the bike.  If you may want one that will hold up on trails and dirt, check out Schwinn or Trek. Now, in my opinion those are good bikes but others may say different.  I own a Trek and it does everything I want it to do.  It will hold up on dirt and gravel/rocky trails without a problem but, I did spend the extra money to have off road tires put on it though.  Yes, as others have said, STAY AWAY from stores like Target and Walmart who sell bikes.  I learned this the hard way myself when I bought a Schwinn from Walmart and it was very cheap compared to the ones at bike shops.  I hope this helps and good luck!

Answer 5

MAGMA's are the best Mountain Bikes, and they are very affordable, I have one myself.

Answer 6

if you only want to spend $300, and wanna get something descent, you need to get a used giant or fuji on ebay. that is simply your only option. if you buy something new in a store for $300 will be heavy as h**l

bikingthings

Answer 7

Why don't you check out the following link:

www.bikemag.com