Hi Leagan, im 16 and still learning, I started last year and did not know what to do, I was obsessed with doing enduro but my original budget of 10k forced me into cross-country. I thought if I bought new it would be best but it really isn't. its a bit trouble some if your budget is only 3500 because often it gets to that just to repair things on a bike. I would say is before you think of buying a bike do research. when you think you have done research get ready to do some more. look at GMBN on you tube and also learn about all the mountain biking standards, like the different hub standards and how hydraulic brakes work and 3x vs 1x drivetrains, look at also how to maintain and repair your bike at home. then also look at the different disciplines of mtb and what suites you best. then when you know you know all the basics and what you want I would only recommend you get a size M and go for a hardtail since they offer the best bang for the buck and you learn usefull skills without even knowing it. 2nd hand is your best choice and before you buy, speak to the buyer and also ask the community if its worth it or not. don't forget to get a helmet { even though ive only been riding for a year I have a broken collar bone and would be dead if I didn't have a helmet, look for certified ones and I would not go lower that 500 for a helmet below that its just for show and uncomfortable and dangerous} stay away from bikes that look very rough and don't go for older than 2020 unless if the parts have been maintained and replaced. your best option is to save up to 8000 to by a 2nd hand bike that's alright condition and also a good helmet and some money to upgrade the bike to suit you best, btw stay away from titan racing, only their expensive bikes 30k+ are good their budget bikes just break and break, bought my bike for 10k and im 26k into it with upgrades and repairs. if you have any further questions do ask and also ask others with more experience for advice, wish you the best of luck with this amazing love hate journey you will get to experience with mtb, and remember the bike is the cheapest thing about the sport🤣
