1st time buyer - MTB

[Grantavious]

Hey Hubbers,

 

I'm a prospective MTBer looking to make my first purchase.

 

I've done a fair amount of reading on this forum so I'm slowly getting an idea of things.

 

I don't want to get a complete entry-level bike that I'm going to have to upgrade soon.

I'll also be doing most of my riding in Dullstroom - very rocky and rather hilly. So it's gotta be able to withstand the conditions (as does my soft behind).

A mixture of cross country and (rocky) trail.

 

I'm about 1.84/1.85m - so probably a Large frame?

 

650b or 29er? (personal preference I guess)

 

I'm looking at a max budget of about 10k (MAYBE a little more, depending on how much I spend on a car)

(I know all the rest of the gear adds up too)

 

Been to two shops so far and had the following suggestions in that price range:

GT Zaskar 9R Sport       http://www.gtbicycles.co.za/2014%20GT%20Bicycles%20Zaskar%209R%20Sport.html

Silverback Sola 3           http://www.silverbacklab.com/bike/mountain/silverback-sola-3/

 

It doesn't have to be new, I don't mind buying second-hand. I have had a look at the classifieds.

But then I'd need some advice on what to look out for in terms of components etc.

 

Thanks so much everyone,

 

Grant

[Cav']

Welcome, have a look at the classifieds first.

[AlanD]

Yes, look at the classifieds here as there are some good buys.

 

Ensure you know the right size bike for you. A few shops can advise on this

 

Components like shimano slx or xt are great as well fox or rock shox for suspension. Always view before you buy and ask about service history including shocks as that can add up. Also check frame has no cracks and tires have some life in them.

 

Gear can add up as shoes, helmut, gloves, shorts and other apparel is pricey.

 

Lastly, kiss any extra cash you have goodbuy as bike goodies are an expensive addition..haha

[scubes]

I bought a sola 3 with slx and it is great. It is an expensive sport as everything adds up. Good luck. GT is also a good buy. Sola 3 is awesome cross country and good on the trails.

[scotty]

Both good bikes, fork on the GT looks better, but then I prefer the brakes on the Silverback to GT. 

[Grantavious]

Thanks for the comments guys.

 

Appreciate it.