Newbie please help

[Rogueblue]

Hi all

 

I'm newbie & need some help please.

 

I don't know a thing a bout mountain bikes but I want to get myself an entry level bike around about R5000.

There are so many makes & I know that components is what one should look at , but I also don't know much about that.

Could you please suggest any good quality entry level bikes? And what components name brands do I need to look for?

I've heard the Silverback is made by a local company & apparently there's a certain amount of debate regarding their quality vs other more well known, but then again I've also heard the Silverback get one better components for a lower priced bike to it's competition. Seen so far the Slade 4 & Stride 20 ... think Slade is the better one?

 

I'm sure a hard back will be fine as is cheaper too, but with decent front shocks that can lock when on road I guess ... and are brakes important for a beginner?

I'm not planning on doing any racing, it's more just for being active, so a bit on hard road and a bit of dust road now and then.

 

I'd really appreciate your advice.

TIA