New or Used bike for beginner

[Khanu63]

Hi,

 

I’m new to this forum. So I`m thinking of starting a new hobby in mountain biking. I`ve got an option to buy a used Mongoose 2008 Tyax Super with some few extras like tubeless tire, clipless pedals ect or a new Raleigh Nomad 60. What would you recommend?

 

Thanks in advance

[Christopher Brunsdon]

Depends on how much your paying and what condition the bike is in. Both bikes have a similar very entry level fork but you can always upgrade (I actually just put a new fork like this on my ride in Jan so its good enough for the basics)

 

But either way your going to be upgrading parts before you know it Also remember that your going to be buying extras like pump, bottle, bibs, helmet, glasses, camelbak, etc, so get saving.

[Christopher Brunsdon]

Oh, and welcome to The Hub, your new home

[messenger]

You have decided already - you now want someone to confirm this so you feel you are doing the right thing, the best choice....??

Without detailed info no-one can help, sorry man - you came here for advice - go with your heart!

 

Welcome new addictee...

[Klaus]

Check out SilverBacks offering for new bikes. There are some good options to get you started and on some trails without busting the bank. The Reno doesn't have such great spec but a few of my mates bought them to get onto some trails to test the water and they did the job - many races and logwood/toyota parks days.

 

You then can move up from there if you start getting to be more of a race snake or trail junkie !

 

My theory for newbies is to cut the cost on the bike and then get decent kit (Best Helmet you can afford) thats better than normal beginner make do's so you enjoy the ride more.

[Khanu63]

Thanks guys,

 

Im leaning towards the Mongoose. But im just a bit weary because its second hand. The guy at our local bike shop says its a very good buy and in very good condition and he also recommends it betweem the two. i just need some extra advice. Both bikes are R3,500 each

Edited March 29, 2011 by Khanu63

[Christopher Brunsdon]

Thanks guys,

 

Im leaning towards the Mongoose. But im just a bit weary because its second hand. The guy at our local bike shop says its a very good buy and in very good condition and he also recommends it betweem the two. i just need some extra advice. Both bikes are R3,500 each

 

Go the Raleigh, its near similar specs to the Mongoose but newer. Your going to learn all about component wear and unless the Mongoose was owned by your 99yr old grandmother with no legs, your going to regret it.

 

Your also going to learn that frames are all sourced from a handful of manufacturers (brands just slap on their stickers), both these bikes are 8spd so your going to have to upgrade the cassette, shifter and derailleur to go to 9spd (but 8spd is good enough, been on it for 2yrs when I started and still happy with it).

 

The component your going to be most concerned about is the fork and the Suntour XCT is a rather basic, non-serviceable fork (got one so I should know). Not going to help you much if you discover after a few trails the fork is shot and now you need to spend another R1K on the bike.

 

I can find no fault in the Raleigh.