What’s a good beginners bike for hiking/mountain biking?
I want to start biking this Summer. I was thinking of going to trails but also riding around in the neighborhood so I want a bike that would be good for both. I don’t want anything too expensive because I don’t plan on doing it daily maybe weekly or biweekly but I do want something that will last me a while. I was looking to be between the $100-650 price range. Anything information would help!
Thanks!
That is a very broad price range. 100$ will get you curbside junk, while $650 will get you a respectible entry level bike. If you want something that will last, and that you will still be happy with in a couple of years, try not to spend less than $400.
Don’t worry much about brand, because there are so many good ones. Trek, GT, Giant, Kona, Specialized, and Gary Fisher are a few of the reliable ones. The best advice I can give you is to go to a real bike shop, where they only sell good bikes. Don’t go to a department store, and don’t order online if you want any support after you make your purchase. Sit on some bikes, take them through the gears in front of the shop. I’m sure one will speak out to you.
The best style of bike for you would be a cross-country or race style Mountain Bike, since they are lighter than other types and easier to haul around for more general uses, yet sturdy enough to run on the trails. Go with a hard-tail because a) they are lighter, and b) soft-tails (rear suspension) bikes at these prices are garbage, so you’ll get a much better bike for your money, less weight to lug around, and no soft frame to soak up your riding energy.
In your position, I would recommend something like this:
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/3_series/3900disc/
Or save a bit of money and go with the old fashioned V-brakes, which are very strong, very reliable, Light Weight, and really only show their weakness over cable Disc Brakes when they get wet.
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/3_series/3900/
I have a feeling that if you hit the trails, you’ll find yourself going more often than you had thought. Happy riding.
Hometown’s Appalachian trail Thru Hike
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