starting out advice

[MCbike]

Hi, we want to buy a mountain bike for our 13 year old son, whom is tall for his age, as he wants to start with the sport. The info we received thus far is between the following brands, Giant medium and the Surge Slingshot. Please may you advise us which brand will be a better option as we would like start of with a better type of bike than just the basics.

[Eugene]

I have been cycling for 15 years and have never heard of a Surge Slingshot. Giant on the other hand is one of the best in the business. They have a huge presence in SA which benefits the after sales and warranties they offer.

 

I have no idea of the specs of this Surge bike vs the spec of the Giant, but if it was my money it would go to the Giant.

[BenReaper]

Surge is a really entry level brand,would rether take a pass on that.

I would suggest you first take a look at what kind of riding youre son would like to do,for example XC,Enduro,Marathon and then decide on what type of bike he needs,hardtail,dual-suspension etc.

 

You cant go wrong with Giant,solid brand.Also look at Merida,Titan and Momsen,these brands offer good value for money.

[Mohs]

Agree with BenReaper and Eugene.

 

For a thirteen year old, you can get some super deals on thehubsa.  Not sure what your budget is, but for +/-15 000 you will be able to buy him a bike that will last for many more years.....or until he is 16 and decides he want to do Downhill racing....Make sure you have a good medical -aid...good-luck

 

example: (ps...not my add)

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/145606-cannondale-flash-650b-full-carbon/

[Guest notmyname]

I would recommend discussing what he wants out of cycling. After that you guys can decide what kind of bike best suits his need(this has been mentioned). Once this has been ironed out, Don't just rush out and buy. Do plenty reseach and revert to this thread for more opinions of brands and models. Get him to ride the final contenders. Purchase bike and send him on a skills course. This will help develop the correct techniques before he has chance to develop bad habits. GO OUT AND HAVE THE BIGGEST JOL!

[MCbike]

Tank you for all advise, it helps a lot if you do not no a thing about the different bikes. Small Fry where do you get information on the skills courses offered?

[Guest notmyname]

Tank you for all advise, it helps a lot if you do not no a thing about the different bikes. Small Fry where do you get information on the skills courses offered?

where are you based? I can't speak for any regions other than Guateng. In this region get in touch with Peach https://community.bikehub.co.za/topic/144786-peach%E2%80%99s-mtb-skills-training-brought-to-you-by-bikelife/

 

I think Cape Town has a place called the Chris nixon academy. Not sure.

[Patchelicious]

Buy him the bike he WANTS and will ride the most, that will keep him more motivated and on the bike more.

[Long Wheel Base]

Buy him the bike he WANTS and will ride the most, that will keep him more motivated and on the bike more.

This is actually very true. As a lightie it's a lot about what all your mates are riding. But if he can't decide then tell him he wants the giant because it is the best [emoji16] and if his buddies don't ride giant they soon will.

PS: I am in no way connected to the giant agents or do I receive commission. I just am very biased[emoji23]

[Fruity]

Haven't had a Giant, Merida, or Momsen. But I agree with BenReaper about Titan. Had a carbon Titan 29er a few years ago, which went for a great price for the components it came with.