What would be a good beginner's mountain bike?

Question

Keeping in mind that expense is a factor.

I'm not sure what a decent beginner bike goes for - I've seen mountain bikes anywhere in between $100 and $1,000.

What features should I look for in a mountain bike as a beginner?

Answer 1

I love my specialized Hardtail.

http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel...

It's sturdy, reliable, and a fun ride.

Answer 2

Ditto to MV's response.  Great advice for beginner !

Answer 3

A trike...

Answer 4

Look for a bike that costs at least $350-400 or so.   Get a hard tail bike as opposed to a full-suspension bike as you'll get more bike for your money.    A bike in this range will have a front fork w/suspension.   Disc brakes are not mandatory(I'm an avid MTB'er and dont have disc's);  dont fall for the 'more stopping power' sales pitch.   Lower quality disc brakes are junk anyway.   Dont be overly concerned with tires;   by the time you decide that you'd like different tires, the ones that came with the bike will be worn out and besides, tires are cheap compared to the whole bike.   I'd also avoid twist grip shifters; they can be inadvertantly shifted too easy.   Start out with flat pedals; after you get more experience, you can then look at buying biking shoes and clip in pedals.

Answer 5

A beginners bike? I'm not exactly sure what that means. If you explained your intended use it would be much better.

Will you be riding, paved trails, gravel roads or full on MTB single track? Or are you thinking of DH or jumping, XC racing?

MTB's run from about $59 to $9000. So expense is usually a factor but why not simply state your budget as well and what you intend to do with the bike?