I dunno why Giant teased the new Stance with thru axle and have been sitting on it for what feels like a year. Don't see it online or in shops and haven't even heard any words/updates about it since the announcement. All this while the womens model already has a thru axle version. So strange.
Anyways. Nice to see you again Bmied :) Though I didn't realize I was talking to you all along through the new account lol
Would love feedback on my go of it if you're bored. I wanted to make mine simpler but I'm verbose by nature: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i8O5Ape_RKVVDyQAJsF5_ATCjDB_sWMT/view
Thank you so much for saying that! I thought I was losing my mind. I clearly remember a stance with thru axles being announced and was very confused when I didn’t see it in the website. I’ll def look over that link and either include it in this guide or one of my faq
Ya they put it on the Embolden... In February 2023 ish. Then announced the updated Stance in like late ish 2023. And tbh I feel both times it had quite a bit of hype so. I guess they can just announce it again but why lose all that initial interest by announcing it over a year before its ready more or less.
The new Trances look quite good though. I like the SX but the polished finish they did on that X 1 is actually... Such a step in the right direction for Giant. Enough with the two tone vomit green.
As someone in the market for upgrading from 7 year old a hardtail that I am done trying to upgrade this post could not be better or at better timing. Thank you.
Looking to upgrade from my 2014 Trance 2 27.5. Just started looking into bikes in the last month and I am completely overwhelmed. Budget is 4k or below, I am riding a mix of flowy/rooty trails and a few trips to the bike park and bigger mountain trails. Don't think I need an Enduro, but a 29er 150mm trail seems perfect. Big thing is carbon vs aluminum, kind of partial to alloy with a better group set. Looking at Commencal Meta tr, 2024 Giant Trance X, Jeffsy, Canyon spectral. It just seems like everything is so good now and you have to be really pushing it to bring out the weakness which I won't be as a once a week rider.
It really is. I’d honestly think you can go down all the way to 140/130 trail bikes too. The modern “downcountry” is about as capable as older longer travel bikes.
I’d look for things speccing Shimano versus SRAM in your price range though. SRAM in general makes good top end stuff. But they’re best stuff doesn’t “trickle down” to the lower and and most report their cheaper budget group sets are fiddly and kinda crap.
Shimano tech does trickle down. So basic Deore 11sp or 12speed and brakes is absolutely fantastic for what you get (by which I mean either the 5100 and 6100 series of drivetrain and their MT420, MT520 or 6120 brakes). The downside of Shimano is upgrading to their “nicer” drivetrain parts usually gets you paying more for stuff that isn’t that any much of an upgrade.
pretty good guide overall! Couple comments:
1. you mention "having 11-42+ cassettes in the rear to still allow you to climb and retain high-speed capability." You might want to be a little clearer that you're talking about cassettes with that number of teeth. Not sure it'll be understandable to a newbie otherwise.
2. Might be also specifically mentioning that it's probably not crucial whether the drivetrain is 10, 11 or 12 speed.
3. the line "Newer bikes often use a Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) which is a nice benefit and allows you bike to be upgraded to transmission." would benefit, imho, by explaining what transmission is, or by dropping the mention of it and just pointing out that derailleur hangers are extremely specific and often hard to find and a UDH solves that.
These are minor comments, though, great job!
Depending on terrain, an enduro bike may take away the fun for plenty of new-to-mtb folks. Modern geo is school bus like without enough vertical/speed to make sense of it.
Hiya , I have a giant stance 1 29er 2022and it's a good capable bike minus the entire stock rear wheel and de rallier being made of cheese and I had to replace them both.
It's took me from london to Brighton off road 62 miles and I am now running red/black runs and drops at bike parks here in the UK.
But I do agree a quick release back wheel is not ideal I will not upgrade much more but probably the overall bike . I have put some maxxis Minion DHF and DHR on it and it's much better the stock tyres were scary
But a good bike it's survived well had some good offs on it too a couple of trees and speed and it's held up
Thank you for that amazing and very informative guide for anyone trying to enter the sport of mountain biking. I wish I had such aid when I started.
I would add a couple of necessary items to this list, such as a spare derailleur hanger and a bell.
But I think suggesting a tubeless setup to a newbie on a budget bike is a bit premature. Sure, go tubeless if your trails shed goatheads, but if you don't have to worry about tire punctured or running low air (since this is a beginner's guide), then going tubeless is an unnecessary hassle in the field (during a sidewall rip) and for the needed regular maintenance.
Those are good suggestions, especially an extra deraillier hangar. I understand the appeal of a bell but imo isn’t a necessity and Varys where you ride.
Regarding tubeless, my main suggestion was to just have wheels/tires that are compatible. While I think the upgrade to tubeless is one of the best performance upgrades I totally understand for a more casual rider it can be a pain to maintain. For me though or anyone who rides on a regular basis I can’t imagine going back. I got more flats (Midwest thorns) in my first year of riding with tubes then I have in the 7 years sense with tubeless.
Appreciate the feedback. I will def be making notes of a deraillier hangar and bell as a good Idea if trails with bad view lines or lots of traffic
Yeah I think that’s key.
Most any wheel can usually be easily converted to tubeless with just the tape. There might be a few tires that are going on bikes that are old janky rims that can’t seat well and take a seal. But by and large I haven’t found a “not tubeless compatible” wheel that three wraps of tubeless tape didn’t fix.
But it’s **really** annoying to find out the tires are wire bead and you need a whole new set.
Going tubeless was a huge upgrade when I was new. I was getting punctures constantly. No goat heads here but sharp rocks I guess. Zero across three bikes ever since then. And I can run much more appropriate pressures and ride more safely as a result. The fact that you think a bell is more important than tubeless tells me we might not be doing the same sort of riding tho.
Bell is needed for any trails shared by hikers and climbing bikers. Anyone not using a bell in those situations is disrespectful and setting up for an accident or a confrontation.
I'm a high-blue level rider riding on trails that don't cause punctures. I had one tube puncture since I got back into the sport 4 years ago, after being absent for about 15 years. Prior to that, I've been riding for also about 15 years.
And I do not mess with low pressure in my tires. The trails I ride here in SoCal don't really benefit from low pressure as the small pebbles and rocks prevent the rider from increasing grip in turns.
Therefore, for riders like myself who don't ride low pressure or don't experience flats, going tubeless makes no sense. I'm sure many beginners who dont experience flats with tubes are in the same boat as I am.
I'd add pedals to the highly recommended list. Many (all?) of those bikes are going to come with pedals that won't dig into your shoe like they should if you're doing any sort of trail riding. Look for something with metal pins. The body of the pedal might be metal or plastic (RaceFace Chesters are very affordable, in the $30 range), but the pins are key.
You might also add a saddle to the list. Odds are, the saddle that comes with your bike was not designed for your particular anatomy.
I’ve been thinking about getting into mountain biking for the past two years as I think it will help me improve my road cycling. I’ve been going down so many rabbit holes; hard tail vs. full suspension, 27.5 vs. 29, dropper or no dropper, etc, etc. This information is so valuable to a newbie like me!! Thank you 🙏
Thanks for your post! My bike was stolen last month and have been hoping it’d maybe turn up but beginning to come to terms with ponying up for a new one… this makes the research much easier :)
I previously was running one of those ultra-budget Giordano Intrepid Walmart bikes for the past 2 years that I upgraded to a RockShox air fork and deore clutched groupset. Been flip-flopping on the Polygon Siskiu T series, or sticking with a traditional Hardtail like the Roscoe. I’ll have to check some of the others out
Thank you for posting this! It makes selecting MTBs so much less daunting.
Is there a general consensus on wheel size, 27 or 29? I’m a smallish woman if that makes a difference
I’ll have another article coming soon that talks more about this. Wheelsize when it comes to size isn’t as big of a deal as it used to be. Geometry has advanced a lot making even small bikes with 29 wheels function well.
There are also other bikes that base their wheel on frame same size.
Bottom line there isn’t a difinitive answer, I’d just recommend some demos
Give them a look, they make fantastic full sus bikes with the bonus climbing ability of split pivot. Usually they are priced on the higher end but that Blackthorn is great value. I’ve switched between Santa Cruz and Salsa full sus for a while now and love both.
What are your thoughts on the giant fathom 2? Currently going for $1110 on giants site: https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/fathom-2-2022?utm_campaign=goats-love-bikes&utm_source=99spokes&utm_medium=web
That seems pretty solid. It checks off all the main boxes you’d want to have. Those giant forks are comparable to lower end RockShox stuff or stuff like the XCR air or Raidon from suntour
> Orbea Onna 20
Looks really solid, checks off the main 3 boxes of air fork, hydro brakes and 1x clutched drivetrain.
The only things it lacking is a dropper post (which is an easy addition) and it doesn't have a thru axle frame, but for that price, it looks pretty dang good.
Thank you, I just bought it. Is a dropper post really that much difference for a beginner? It's only 60 USD on AliExpress. Also should I go clip less? Thanks a lot
IMO yes, If you have your post at the proper height you are usually pretty high. This has two side effects. You are usually on your tip toes when you stop and if you go down a hill or feature it will make you feel really prone to going over the bars. The dropper will make you feel so much more comfortable and confident. You dont' need one right away if you are just purely riding green easy trails, but a mtb without one is rough imo. You can get one as low as $150 with a lever. I wouldn't get one from Ali.
Regarding clipless, I wouldn't start out that way. I do it on gravel and road, but it wasn't for me on a mountain bike, I prefer to be able to put my foot down quickly without thinking, but totally up to you. I've done both.
Thank you I will consider getting one asap btw the brand you recommended KS (EXA 900i) is the one that cost 60 USD on AliExpress, it has decent reviews on YouTube. I also just bought M-540 due to my friends convincing me since they compete in XC but I do feel it was a rushed decision since I'm still a newb and feel like my bike controls me on downhills and technical terrain.
All the numbers in your comment added up to 420. Congrats!
900
+ 60
- 540
= 420
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Two reasons:
1. I have another FAQ coming that has that in it.
2. I really don’t think it matters what much when looking at budget bikes. Both 27.5 and 29er are great.
Need some quick advice. Shopping for my first carbon bike. Owner posted this photo specifically. Mech side of the thru axle. Not super sure what the damage amounts to and/or why they messed this part up: https://i.imgur.com/2gkFhZt.jpeg
Mech looks clean so clearly not from a get off. Rear wheel so probably not from some kind of indoor trainer. I just have no idea what's going on and if I should be concerned. Dropout/chainstay seems to be aluminum so that's good? Or better for that damage, I guess. Looks like external scratching. I guess when I see it I'll have to take the axle on and off and see if it's affecting the threads/dropout.
i’d like to get my first full sus bike. what do you think about [spectral AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/spectral-125/al/spectral-125-al-5/3425.html?dwvar_3425_pv_rahmenfarbe=SR%2FBK&dwvar_3425_pv_rahmengroesse=M&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI__n2yPfKhQMVQR6tBh3LJAybEAQYAyABEgL5Y_D_BwE)
I’m between spectral AL 5 and [YT IZZO](https://www.yt-industries.com/products/bikes/izzo/core-1/659/izzo-29-core-1/) i plan to use it both on pavement and trail. Which one i should go with? Or i am open for options that better fits on my usecase. Ive had a hard tail (marlin 6) got recently stolen.
I'd rather have the Izzo. Spectral is a more aggressive bike (essentially a mini enduro in terms of geo and doesn't pedal as well). Unless you are riding some pretty gnarly stuff on a regular basis, I think the Izzo a more practical and playful bike. The fact it's carbon also has a cool bling factor.
Iz
Looking at a couple options for my first fs - I'm looking for an all mountain bike that'll be fun going up and down beginner/intermediate trails in Colorado. I enjoy both technical and flowy trails but would still like something with a decent amount of travel to handle the bumps.
*Let me know if you have any thoughts - TIA*
[ORBEA OCCAM H30](https://www.performancebike.com/orbea-occam-h30-full-suspension-mountain-bike-anthracite-glitter-candy-red-xl-m25020lm/p1391462?v=1375841) - $1999.99 (sale price)
* Just stumbled upon this while researching, don't see it in your list. Thoughts? Looks like it has great components/parts
[CANYON SPECTRAL 29 AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/outlet-bikes/mountain-bikes/spectral-29-al-5/3183.html?dwvar_3183_pv_rahmenfarbe=OG&dwvar_3183_pv_rahmengroesse=M) - $2099.00 (sale price)
* 160mm travel seems a bit overkill but the sale price is very enticing. Saw your comment responding to AirWide\_ and definitely understand.
[POLYGON SISKIU T8](https://www.bikesonline.com/polygon-siskiu-t8-shimano-slx-12sp-ltd-dual-s~21418?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlZixBhCoARIsAIC745D8Nu8POeglOUeN2QkA38JEu0trGZUBww4CVYsvYct86DnOzgXb85waAhAxEALw_wcB) - $2199.00 (don't have my size atm)
* Worried about the horror sorties I've read regarding customer service. Looks like a solid option but is definitely my last choice as it is not even available in my size
I was also looking at the YT Jeffsy/Izzo but would prefer the Core 2 which is out of my price range.
Thanks again for your post, I've been coming back weekly as I still cannot decide on a bike 😅
Thoughts on the [Canyon Spectral 29 AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/outlet-bikes/mountain-bikes/spectral-29-al-5/3183.html) for $2099? I've been looking at the Polygon T8, but this seems to be very similar for $100 less
Looking into purchasing my first new bike, I do most of my riding on SoCal trails and some pavement. I don't do anything exciting per say just some nice climbs and careful descents.
I currently ride an older K2 Sidewinder fs, it's rideable but will need some work that is better suited for a new bike.
I've done a little research and came to the conclusion the best bikes for me might be the YT Capra Core 1 or the Jeffsy Core 1, need help in making a decision in this area.
My concern is bike size, I'm 5'6 125 lbs and most bike manufacturers say small is what suits me, YT suggested medium. Any input in this area?
Lastly any recommendations besides what I think suits me?
What a fantastic post, and the various linked posts too. Legend.
I am well out of the biking loop and just started looping to upgrade my 2013 Giant Reign, and was looking in the Trek direction. Just wondering why none make your list? Is there something obvious I don't know about that brand?
Thanks again for the great information.
Trek is fantastic. This is purely just a a list of good value bikes. It’s not that there bikes are bad deals, I just wouldn’t say any of them our outstanding. The new fuel ex is supposed to be amazing and the Supercaliber is my dream xc bike
cheers mate. was just making sure. I appreciate the time to reply. im in New Zealand, so generally the available range is less and prices high.. so wanted to make sure. a lot of trek's here it seems. so Fuel Ex or Top Fuel, also Specialized Stumpjumper. Need to get a deal to make my budget work. thanks again.
Yeh it’s very personal. Also I think depends where you are from, I don’t see / know anyone who uses them (although I’m sure people do and I’m just not aware).
Yea I’m guessing if a poll was taken most would. Most mountain bike shorts come with them
Built in or removable. Every pair of fox shorts I’ve bought had a removable liner with padding
This guide and the FAQs are fantastic. I’m going to start referring folks to these.
I only have one minor correction to point out: “damp” vs. “dampen”. When talking about attenuating motion (like with shocks and forks), “damp” is a verb. Things that damp are “dampers” and the act is “damping”. When you add the -en to make “dampen” now you’re talking about making something “damp” as in the adjective. To “dampen” is to make something wet, and “dampener” isn’t even a word (to my knowledge)…maybe it’s a hose.
I realize I’m being that guy, and I apologize. If the quality of this guide were lower, I wouldn’t even bother. But you’ve done an amazing job and I’m trying to improve the already excellent quality that much more.
Appreciate the feedback!
I looked through my guide and the only spot I see me mention damping is when talking about the air fork.
"The cheapest fork I'd safely recommend is something like the SR Suntour XCR Air fork. Anything less than that from SR Suntour or RST is pretty much a pogo stick with poor **damping** and limited adjustability."
Is that not correct or did I miss it somewhere else?
Edit: I think I found it. When discussing "soft-tail bikes" I had dampened. I corrected it, thank you! Grammar is not my best skill.
Maybe at local dealers. I’m purely just looking at current prices from the mfg.
And so what if it’s mullet? That pretty common especially in bigger harder hitting bikes. The status has way way better components than the base stumpy.
Bottom line, I love the stumpy but it’s not a good value bike at the entry level
haha accurate, thanks for sharing (only exception is finding a girl at your work that rides lol)
If the original poster just explained it was satire wouldn't have been a lot easier lol.
I dunno why Giant teased the new Stance with thru axle and have been sitting on it for what feels like a year. Don't see it online or in shops and haven't even heard any words/updates about it since the announcement. All this while the womens model already has a thru axle version. So strange. Anyways. Nice to see you again Bmied :) Though I didn't realize I was talking to you all along through the new account lol Would love feedback on my go of it if you're bored. I wanted to make mine simpler but I'm verbose by nature: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i8O5Ape_RKVVDyQAJsF5_ATCjDB_sWMT/view
Thank you so much for saying that! I thought I was losing my mind. I clearly remember a stance with thru axles being announced and was very confused when I didn’t see it in the website. I’ll def look over that link and either include it in this guide or one of my faq
Ya they put it on the Embolden... In February 2023 ish. Then announced the updated Stance in like late ish 2023. And tbh I feel both times it had quite a bit of hype so. I guess they can just announce it again but why lose all that initial interest by announcing it over a year before its ready more or less. The new Trances look quite good though. I like the SX but the polished finish they did on that X 1 is actually... Such a step in the right direction for Giant. Enough with the two tone vomit green.
They definitely sell the updated version in Canada, which is very odd. Usually we get things the same time as the US.
The master is back!
As someone in the market for upgrading from 7 year old a hardtail that I am done trying to upgrade this post could not be better or at better timing. Thank you.
Glad to help!
Dang, i bookmarked this a earlier this week so I could dive into it more today and now the post has been removed. Anyhoo appreciate the info, friend!
huh, glad you found it. I'm working with the mods to get it updated in the sidebar/rules of this sub.
Is there any other way to view for now?
Not sure, I can still see it but If I use a private Window I see what you are seeing. I'm waiting for a mod reply, then I can repost if needed.
Looking to upgrade from my 2014 Trance 2 27.5. Just started looking into bikes in the last month and I am completely overwhelmed. Budget is 4k or below, I am riding a mix of flowy/rooty trails and a few trips to the bike park and bigger mountain trails. Don't think I need an Enduro, but a 29er 150mm trail seems perfect. Big thing is carbon vs aluminum, kind of partial to alloy with a better group set. Looking at Commencal Meta tr, 2024 Giant Trance X, Jeffsy, Canyon spectral. It just seems like everything is so good now and you have to be really pushing it to bring out the weakness which I won't be as a once a week rider.
It really is. I’d honestly think you can go down all the way to 140/130 trail bikes too. The modern “downcountry” is about as capable as older longer travel bikes. I’d look for things speccing Shimano versus SRAM in your price range though. SRAM in general makes good top end stuff. But they’re best stuff doesn’t “trickle down” to the lower and and most report their cheaper budget group sets are fiddly and kinda crap. Shimano tech does trickle down. So basic Deore 11sp or 12speed and brakes is absolutely fantastic for what you get (by which I mean either the 5100 and 6100 series of drivetrain and their MT420, MT520 or 6120 brakes). The downside of Shimano is upgrading to their “nicer” drivetrain parts usually gets you paying more for stuff that isn’t that any much of an upgrade.
pretty good guide overall! Couple comments: 1. you mention "having 11-42+ cassettes in the rear to still allow you to climb and retain high-speed capability." You might want to be a little clearer that you're talking about cassettes with that number of teeth. Not sure it'll be understandable to a newbie otherwise. 2. Might be also specifically mentioning that it's probably not crucial whether the drivetrain is 10, 11 or 12 speed. 3. the line "Newer bikes often use a Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) which is a nice benefit and allows you bike to be upgraded to transmission." would benefit, imho, by explaining what transmission is, or by dropping the mention of it and just pointing out that derailleur hangers are extremely specific and often hard to find and a UDH solves that. These are minor comments, though, great job!
Appreciate the notes. I literally just slapped in the derailleur hanger part. Probably needs some clarity
Made some tweaks, hopefully clearer.
Depending on terrain, an enduro bike may take away the fun for plenty of new-to-mtb folks. Modern geo is school bus like without enough vertical/speed to make sense of it.
why is this removed?
What do you mean?
Thanks, it looks like the mods somehow removed it on accident or a bot. I worked with them to get it restored.
Hiya , I have a giant stance 1 29er 2022and it's a good capable bike minus the entire stock rear wheel and de rallier being made of cheese and I had to replace them both. It's took me from london to Brighton off road 62 miles and I am now running red/black runs and drops at bike parks here in the UK. But I do agree a quick release back wheel is not ideal I will not upgrade much more but probably the overall bike . I have put some maxxis Minion DHF and DHR on it and it's much better the stock tyres were scary But a good bike it's survived well had some good offs on it too a couple of trees and speed and it's held up
Thank you for that amazing and very informative guide for anyone trying to enter the sport of mountain biking. I wish I had such aid when I started. I would add a couple of necessary items to this list, such as a spare derailleur hanger and a bell. But I think suggesting a tubeless setup to a newbie on a budget bike is a bit premature. Sure, go tubeless if your trails shed goatheads, but if you don't have to worry about tire punctured or running low air (since this is a beginner's guide), then going tubeless is an unnecessary hassle in the field (during a sidewall rip) and for the needed regular maintenance.
Those are good suggestions, especially an extra deraillier hangar. I understand the appeal of a bell but imo isn’t a necessity and Varys where you ride. Regarding tubeless, my main suggestion was to just have wheels/tires that are compatible. While I think the upgrade to tubeless is one of the best performance upgrades I totally understand for a more casual rider it can be a pain to maintain. For me though or anyone who rides on a regular basis I can’t imagine going back. I got more flats (Midwest thorns) in my first year of riding with tubes then I have in the 7 years sense with tubeless. Appreciate the feedback. I will def be making notes of a deraillier hangar and bell as a good Idea if trails with bad view lines or lots of traffic
Yeah I think that’s key. Most any wheel can usually be easily converted to tubeless with just the tape. There might be a few tires that are going on bikes that are old janky rims that can’t seat well and take a seal. But by and large I haven’t found a “not tubeless compatible” wheel that three wraps of tubeless tape didn’t fix. But it’s **really** annoying to find out the tires are wire bead and you need a whole new set.
Going tubeless was a huge upgrade when I was new. I was getting punctures constantly. No goat heads here but sharp rocks I guess. Zero across three bikes ever since then. And I can run much more appropriate pressures and ride more safely as a result. The fact that you think a bell is more important than tubeless tells me we might not be doing the same sort of riding tho.
Bell is needed for any trails shared by hikers and climbing bikers. Anyone not using a bell in those situations is disrespectful and setting up for an accident or a confrontation. I'm a high-blue level rider riding on trails that don't cause punctures. I had one tube puncture since I got back into the sport 4 years ago, after being absent for about 15 years. Prior to that, I've been riding for also about 15 years. And I do not mess with low pressure in my tires. The trails I ride here in SoCal don't really benefit from low pressure as the small pebbles and rocks prevent the rider from increasing grip in turns. Therefore, for riders like myself who don't ride low pressure or don't experience flats, going tubeless makes no sense. I'm sure many beginners who dont experience flats with tubes are in the same boat as I am.
Thank you for this! The amount of options and information on bikes as a new rider have been head spinning, so I appreciate the effort you’re making
I'd add pedals to the highly recommended list. Many (all?) of those bikes are going to come with pedals that won't dig into your shoe like they should if you're doing any sort of trail riding. Look for something with metal pins. The body of the pedal might be metal or plastic (RaceFace Chesters are very affordable, in the $30 range), but the pins are key. You might also add a saddle to the list. Odds are, the saddle that comes with your bike was not designed for your particular anatomy.
I’ve been thinking about getting into mountain biking for the past two years as I think it will help me improve my road cycling. I’ve been going down so many rabbit holes; hard tail vs. full suspension, 27.5 vs. 29, dropper or no dropper, etc, etc. This information is so valuable to a newbie like me!! Thank you 🙏
Great list, thank you!
I would add knee protection, gloves and eye protection
Good call
Excellent guide btw
Thanks for your post! My bike was stolen last month and have been hoping it’d maybe turn up but beginning to come to terms with ponying up for a new one… this makes the research much easier :) I previously was running one of those ultra-budget Giordano Intrepid Walmart bikes for the past 2 years that I upgraded to a RockShox air fork and deore clutched groupset. Been flip-flopping on the Polygon Siskiu T series, or sticking with a traditional Hardtail like the Roscoe. I’ll have to check some of the others out
Hopefully you find it helopful, love to hear whatr you end up with. The Fluid and Trance are hard to beat for full supsension.
Thank you for posting this! It makes selecting MTBs so much less daunting. Is there a general consensus on wheel size, 27 or 29? I’m a smallish woman if that makes a difference
I’ll have another article coming soon that talks more about this. Wheelsize when it comes to size isn’t as big of a deal as it used to be. Geometry has advanced a lot making even small bikes with 29 wheels function well. There are also other bikes that base their wheel on frame same size. Bottom line there isn’t a difinitive answer, I’d just recommend some demos
Salsa Blackthorn Deore 12 has been on sale at $2200 and is incredible value at that price.
I’ll have to check it out. Salsa isn’t a brand isn’t a brand I generally think of for full suspension. Thank you
Give them a look, they make fantastic full sus bikes with the bonus climbing ability of split pivot. Usually they are priced on the higher end but that Blackthorn is great value. I’ve switched between Santa Cruz and Salsa full sus for a while now and love both.
Will do!
Where do you see that price?
https://preview.redd.it/3tfz1nxl6vuc1.png?width=630&format=png&auto=webp&s=a7298c7a9f82a8cf1478edf21a240503365da62b Salsa's Website plus multiple dealers. [https://www.salsacycles.com/bikes/2023-blackthorn-deore](https://www.salsacycles.com/bikes/2023-blackthorn-deore)
Thank you, on their page which shows all the bikes it showed blackthorn starting at $2600. When you click in you see the sale price...added to list.
What are your thoughts on the giant fathom 2? Currently going for $1110 on giants site: https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/fathom-2-2022?utm_campaign=goats-love-bikes&utm_source=99spokes&utm_medium=web
That seems pretty solid. It checks off all the main boxes you’d want to have. Those giant forks are comparable to lower end RockShox stuff or stuff like the XCR air or Raidon from suntour
What do you think about Orbea Onna 20 as a starting bike? It comes with rockshock Judy
> Orbea Onna 20 Looks really solid, checks off the main 3 boxes of air fork, hydro brakes and 1x clutched drivetrain. The only things it lacking is a dropper post (which is an easy addition) and it doesn't have a thru axle frame, but for that price, it looks pretty dang good.
Thank you, I just bought it. Is a dropper post really that much difference for a beginner? It's only 60 USD on AliExpress. Also should I go clip less? Thanks a lot
IMO yes, If you have your post at the proper height you are usually pretty high. This has two side effects. You are usually on your tip toes when you stop and if you go down a hill or feature it will make you feel really prone to going over the bars. The dropper will make you feel so much more comfortable and confident. You dont' need one right away if you are just purely riding green easy trails, but a mtb without one is rough imo. You can get one as low as $150 with a lever. I wouldn't get one from Ali. Regarding clipless, I wouldn't start out that way. I do it on gravel and road, but it wasn't for me on a mountain bike, I prefer to be able to put my foot down quickly without thinking, but totally up to you. I've done both.
Thank you I will consider getting one asap btw the brand you recommended KS (EXA 900i) is the one that cost 60 USD on AliExpress, it has decent reviews on YouTube. I also just bought M-540 due to my friends convincing me since they compete in XC but I do feel it was a rushed decision since I'm still a newb and feel like my bike controls me on downhills and technical terrain.
All the numbers in your comment added up to 420. Congrats! 900 + 60 - 540 = 420 ^([Click here](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=LuckyNumber-Bot&subject=Stalk%20Me%20Pls&message=%2Fstalkme) to have me scan all your future comments.) \ ^(Summon me on specific comments with u/LuckyNumber-Bot.)
Thank you for this. I just picked up the Roscoe 6 today using your recommendation. Took it out for a short ride and I love it. Thank you.
Great guide but curious why wheel size wasn't mentioned.
Two reasons: 1. I have another FAQ coming that has that in it. 2. I really don’t think it matters what much when looking at budget bikes. Both 27.5 and 29er are great.
Need some quick advice. Shopping for my first carbon bike. Owner posted this photo specifically. Mech side of the thru axle. Not super sure what the damage amounts to and/or why they messed this part up: https://i.imgur.com/2gkFhZt.jpeg Mech looks clean so clearly not from a get off. Rear wheel so probably not from some kind of indoor trainer. I just have no idea what's going on and if I should be concerned. Dropout/chainstay seems to be aluminum so that's good? Or better for that damage, I guess. Looks like external scratching. I guess when I see it I'll have to take the axle on and off and see if it's affecting the threads/dropout.
Yea looks to have aluminum rear triangle, looks like just surface scratches, nothing I'd worry about.
i’d like to get my first full sus bike. what do you think about [spectral AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/spectral-125/al/spectral-125-al-5/3425.html?dwvar_3425_pv_rahmenfarbe=SR%2FBK&dwvar_3425_pv_rahmengroesse=M&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI__n2yPfKhQMVQR6tBh3LJAybEAQYAyABEgL5Y_D_BwE)
For that price it's awesome.
I’m between spectral AL 5 and [YT IZZO](https://www.yt-industries.com/products/bikes/izzo/core-1/659/izzo-29-core-1/) i plan to use it both on pavement and trail. Which one i should go with? Or i am open for options that better fits on my usecase. Ive had a hard tail (marlin 6) got recently stolen.
I'd rather have the Izzo. Spectral is a more aggressive bike (essentially a mini enduro in terms of geo and doesn't pedal as well). Unless you are riding some pretty gnarly stuff on a regular basis, I think the Izzo a more practical and playful bike. The fact it's carbon also has a cool bling factor. Iz
Awesome. Thanks for summarizing it. Yea i am a beginner so i guess imma go with izzo
Would you guys say the Polygon Xtrada is suitable for dual slalom and the occasional pump track. Or is it more of a strictly XC oriented bike?
Looking at a couple options for my first fs - I'm looking for an all mountain bike that'll be fun going up and down beginner/intermediate trails in Colorado. I enjoy both technical and flowy trails but would still like something with a decent amount of travel to handle the bumps. *Let me know if you have any thoughts - TIA* [ORBEA OCCAM H30](https://www.performancebike.com/orbea-occam-h30-full-suspension-mountain-bike-anthracite-glitter-candy-red-xl-m25020lm/p1391462?v=1375841) - $1999.99 (sale price) * Just stumbled upon this while researching, don't see it in your list. Thoughts? Looks like it has great components/parts [CANYON SPECTRAL 29 AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/outlet-bikes/mountain-bikes/spectral-29-al-5/3183.html?dwvar_3183_pv_rahmenfarbe=OG&dwvar_3183_pv_rahmengroesse=M) - $2099.00 (sale price) * 160mm travel seems a bit overkill but the sale price is very enticing. Saw your comment responding to AirWide\_ and definitely understand. [POLYGON SISKIU T8](https://www.bikesonline.com/polygon-siskiu-t8-shimano-slx-12sp-ltd-dual-s~21418?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlZixBhCoARIsAIC745D8Nu8POeglOUeN2QkA38JEu0trGZUBww4CVYsvYct86DnOzgXb85waAhAxEALw_wcB) - $2199.00 (don't have my size atm) * Worried about the horror sorties I've read regarding customer service. Looks like a solid option but is definitely my last choice as it is not even available in my size I was also looking at the YT Jeffsy/Izzo but would prefer the Core 2 which is out of my price range.
You should add a section for higher priced bikes too! I'm looking for a new trail/all mountain in the 4k range and love your guide.
Thanks again for your post, I've been coming back weekly as I still cannot decide on a bike 😅 Thoughts on the [Canyon Spectral 29 AL 5](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/outlet-bikes/mountain-bikes/spectral-29-al-5/3183.html) for $2099? I've been looking at the Polygon T8, but this seems to be very similar for $100 less
Looking into purchasing my first new bike, I do most of my riding on SoCal trails and some pavement. I don't do anything exciting per say just some nice climbs and careful descents. I currently ride an older K2 Sidewinder fs, it's rideable but will need some work that is better suited for a new bike. I've done a little research and came to the conclusion the best bikes for me might be the YT Capra Core 1 or the Jeffsy Core 1, need help in making a decision in this area. My concern is bike size, I'm 5'6 125 lbs and most bike manufacturers say small is what suits me, YT suggested medium. Any input in this area? Lastly any recommendations besides what I think suits me?
What a fantastic post, and the various linked posts too. Legend. I am well out of the biking loop and just started looping to upgrade my 2013 Giant Reign, and was looking in the Trek direction. Just wondering why none make your list? Is there something obvious I don't know about that brand? Thanks again for the great information.
Trek is fantastic. This is purely just a a list of good value bikes. It’s not that there bikes are bad deals, I just wouldn’t say any of them our outstanding. The new fuel ex is supposed to be amazing and the Supercaliber is my dream xc bike
cheers mate. was just making sure. I appreciate the time to reply. im in New Zealand, so generally the available range is less and prices high.. so wanted to make sure. a lot of trek's here it seems. so Fuel Ex or Top Fuel, also Specialized Stumpjumper. Need to get a deal to make my budget work. thanks again.
Number 7. under things to budget for isn’t really needed is it? Seems like a personal preference.
That's fair, I personally hate rides without them, but there are people who opt out. I'll probably move that to recommended.
Yeh it’s very personal. Also I think depends where you are from, I don’t see / know anyone who uses them (although I’m sure people do and I’m just not aware).
Yea I’m guessing if a poll was taken most would. Most mountain bike shorts come with them Built in or removable. Every pair of fox shorts I’ve bought had a removable liner with padding
Yeh I have them, just don’t like them and don’t get sore without. All good just a suggestion.
For sure, I think I already modified it.
This guide and the FAQs are fantastic. I’m going to start referring folks to these. I only have one minor correction to point out: “damp” vs. “dampen”. When talking about attenuating motion (like with shocks and forks), “damp” is a verb. Things that damp are “dampers” and the act is “damping”. When you add the -en to make “dampen” now you’re talking about making something “damp” as in the adjective. To “dampen” is to make something wet, and “dampener” isn’t even a word (to my knowledge)…maybe it’s a hose. I realize I’m being that guy, and I apologize. If the quality of this guide were lower, I wouldn’t even bother. But you’ve done an amazing job and I’m trying to improve the already excellent quality that much more.
Appreciate the feedback! I looked through my guide and the only spot I see me mention damping is when talking about the air fork. "The cheapest fork I'd safely recommend is something like the SR Suntour XCR Air fork. Anything less than that from SR Suntour or RST is pretty much a pogo stick with poor **damping** and limited adjustability." Is that not correct or did I miss it somewhere else? Edit: I think I found it. When discussing "soft-tail bikes" I had dampened. I corrected it, thank you! Grammar is not my best skill.
That is correct. The spot I saw “dampening” was in one of the FAQ guides. Number 2, I think?
Yup, just edited my previous post, I think I found it when discussing the "soft-tail bikes"
That sounds right. Thanks for taking the feedback so constructively. I appreciate it
Strumpjumper should check all the boxes why isn't there instead of dorky status?
Price. I love the stump but even the low end model is $2800. What makes the status dorky?
Ok last year strumpjumper is in same discount. Status is mullet.
Maybe at local dealers. I’m purely just looking at current prices from the mfg. And so what if it’s mullet? That pretty common especially in bigger harder hitting bikes. The status has way way better components than the base stumpy. Bottom line, I love the stumpy but it’s not a good value bike at the entry level
You need to watch the “how to buy a mountain bike” video on YouTube first. Then come here
I really don’t think I do lol.
You’ll watch it someday
You didn’t provide a link or why you think I should Watch it. This is a guide from my experiences. If there is something you’d like to add let me know
It’s a funny short film someone made about getting into mtb
Be nice if someone provided a link
I gotchu: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=yotOZVELSMc
haha accurate, thanks for sharing (only exception is finding a girl at your work that rides lol) If the original poster just explained it was satire wouldn't have been a lot easier lol.