for $3,000 you'll be able to get yourself a pretty nice rig - keep in mind you'll also want to ensure you have funds to get yourself some of the toerh stuff you may need - helemt, padded shorts, pumps, tube, patches, gloves maybe a camelback or a backpack to carry the stuff you are going to buy.
While I don't have a specific bike to recommend - here are some thoughts on different kinds of mtn bikes:
- the all mountain bike - this type of bike will have 5 to 6 inches of travel and can be used to pedal uphill (at say Bragg Creek) and cruise downhill (at some place like COP). this bike will have slighly slacker or possibly somewhat adjustable geometry than the XC rig. this type of bike will be heavier than the other two. this bike is flexible, which means it does nothering overly good or poorly (I have an AM rig - I like it, but as I get older I think I'd perfer an XC rig because it is easier to have a bike that is 6 lbs lighter than actually lose the weight myself)
- the XC rig - thses bikes typically have 4 inches of travel - typically used at Bragg Creek - you could take a bike like this to COP, but the reality is that a AM rig would be better. Thsi would be a mid-weight bike
- the Hardtail - for $3k you could get a pretty nicely speced HT and this type of bike would be the lightest; however, it would be the least amount of fun. you would not want a HT at COP. these days I'd categorize HT bikes for more hard core riders.
Go to one of the local bikes shops and have a look at thier product line up and take a few for a spin. All major manufacutres have a decent selection of mid-priced AM/XC rigs.
you could go the used route, but if you are not sure what you are looking at, then just be careful as you don't want to buy someone else's trouble.
Quote:
Originally Posted by cral12
Thanks everyone for the input/advice.
I;ve done lots of biking/cycling but an admitted newbie to XC. I don't plan on doing anything crazy from the downhill perspective. Thus, would like have a bike that covers intermediate needs.
Although I like to invest in something that will last as my skill progresses.
Depends, of course, on new or used with respect to what I'm will to spend. I don't mind spending a little more if the deal and value is there.
I was thinking in the $2000-3000 range depending on what that gets me - of course would love to pay less (be easier to convince the little woman...hah) , but realize you do have to pay for quality.
If you want to read mroe about specific bike remmondations, checks out the fourms at Pinkbike.com or MTBR.com (more US centric)
Have fun shopping, and accept the fact you are getting a new addiciton.
Thanks
|