Need a new bike ... please help

[VicZA]

Hey all,

 

I am a newbie mountain biker !!

 

I initially had a very basic Trek with the rubber pad breaks, etc but then got a slightly better Trek with disk brakes - but didn't ride much.

 

I have now started riding a bit more often and the hard-tail is killing my back and butt !!

 

I live in Nelspruit and we mostly go riding in the forests that surround Nelspruit and White River.

 

I would like to get a full-suspension bike but am unsure of what I should be looking for .... please help !!

 

Don't need a very expensive, fancy bike ... just a good bike that will last me a few good years of riding ...... and is more comfortable !!

 

PS: I know I had 2 Trek bikes, but I have no preference for Trek .... just happened that way.

 

Thanks for the help

Vic

[BergForce]

Giant anthem

[Cav']

Have a look at the classifieds - and see what is within your budget.

[Captain Fastbastard Mayhem]

+1 on the Anthem. It is the "budget" XC/Marathon dual susser, and for good reason. I would actually suggest the Trance as well though, if you're looking at enjoying your rides and want something that can "do it all"

 

Why? THey're built stronger than the Anthems, because they're designed as a trail bike as opposed to the XC bike that the Anthem is. Not to say that the Anthem is weak, but just that it's not designed to go smashing around the trails as much as the Trance does...

[graham cube]

Hi

 

I tested the Trance and it was a great bike.

I ride a Commencal Meta which is awesome through the twisty bits, but not a great climber ( or my legs are not ).

One friend rides a Gt, which he raves about

Another friend rides a Specialized which he loves.

Next friend rides a Cube and another friend rides a Silverback.

It comes down to personal preference. I suggest setting a budget and go to your local shop and ask to test ride.

[scotty]

Depends what your budget is and whether you looking for new or used (both have pros and cons) and are you looking for 29 or 26. IMO best value new is Silverback.

[VicZA]

Thanks folks .... what are the Ghost bikes like ?? I have an opportunity to buy one second hand ...

[Zook]

Thanks folks .... what are the Ghost bikes like ?? I have an opportunity to buy one second hand ...

 

I'd say try riding it. If it's secondhand they won't mind if you take it for a spin. Then select from a couple suggestions here and try those bikes.

 

On the Trance, a friend has one and thinks it's a bit too bouncy for him. He's very technical but prefers his bike to be a bit more efficient. So...try it for yourself, preferably on a trail you'll be riding on.

[VicZA]

Looks like I will be getting myself a second hand Giant Trance X2. Really like the look of these bikes and as I understand it, they are pretty sturdy "do-it-all" bike.

 

I got my eye on a 2010 model with all the standard "off the shelf" stuff (no modifications) - in pretty good condition (only minor usage scratches). Guy is asking for R11,500.00 ....... is that a good deal?

[BergForce]

Looks like I will be getting myself a second hand Giant Trance X2. Really like the look of these bikes and as I understand it, they are pretty sturdy "do-it-all" bike.

 

I got my eye on a 2010 model with all the standard "off the shelf" stuff (no modifications) - in pretty good condition (only minor usage scratches). Guy is asking for R11,500.00 ....... is that a good deal?

 

R11500 should be a good deal, but it depends on the specs and condition of the bike. Fox front and Fox RP2 rear is quality. It will probably be a good idea to check how much life there is in the drivetrain, and when last the shocks were serviced, and then try offer something less. But if it is in good condition it is a good buy.