sa-shooter Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 Hi guys, brand new member and I am in need of some guidance... or perhaps a shove, in the right direction. Firstly, I would like to apologize as I am sure this question is asked over and over again. I have searched the forum but due to my ignorance I am sure I'm missing a lot of info that I just don't know to search for. Much of the info (regarding price and models)is also outdated which makes it a bit of a challenge for me. So I am a total noob but I'm really keen to get into some entry level mountain biking. I live in Stellenbosch and I know there are some epic trails out here that I am missing out on. So, I need a bike but my budget is quite limited. I have about R3000 to R5000 (preferably less) to spend. I realize that this is very limiting but, that is where you guys and gals come in! I shall be buying used as this will probably allow me to get the best bang for buck but I need to know in which direction to go. Through my, admittedly limited, research I have found that either the GT Avelanche or Giant Revel to be a good starting point, however I wanted to get some advice and see if there are any other brands/models worth looking at to maximise on value and broaden my search in the used bike market. I don't need the latest and greatest, so-to-speak, I just need something that will get the job done without too much hassle. I am also fully aware that upgrades would be imminent, this will come in due course once I've decided weather I want to go full bore with the endeavour. For now, just light hearted fun! I am about 1.8m tall and weighing about 120KG (working hard to change this!). Primary application for this bike would be just for fun and dipping the toe in the water to see what it's like. I may also on occasion commute to work. I look forward to any and all responses.
Vetplant Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 Welcome to the Hub. Firstly, grow a thick skin, you will get the whole spread of opinions on here. Take what works for you and ignore the rest. Regarding your bike, you are more than likely to get something to fit you and your budget in the classifieds section. I would advise you to get a bike fit assessment first before you go shopping, that way you have measurements to take with you to ensure you get the right sized bike. BUT, that typically costs around R1000 - R1500, which is a big chunk of your budget. So rather do the bike fit with your next bike when you have saved more cash and want a proper upgrade. So a compromise for your current situation is to go ride a bunch of bikes to find out what size works best for you. Borrow bikes from buddies and test ride bikes at shops. Only once you have a good idea of what size works should you enter the market. It is very Counter Productive to get a nice bike that is a size to big or small for you. Your budget doesn't leave much room to be picky, so you will probably be able to get a nice 26" hardtail, which is totally fine to get started on.
Rocket-Boy Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 Welcome to the forums Shooter.Im sure everyone will recommend the same thing, check the classifieds for a second hand bike.Buying new around that price point wont get you much and it wont be long before you are selling the bike for a loss to upgrade.You can get a nice 26" in your budget without too much trouble.Just be sure to factor in things like helmets and cycling clothing. You need to either get a decent pair of trail shorts or the lycra type depending on which you prefer, they will make the biggest difference to your enjoyment on the bike.
Vetplant Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 Just an idea of what you can get:https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/290191-silverback-stride-10/ https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/283834-raleigh-namib-xl-29er-bm1117/
LeoKnight Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 As mentioned before dont underestimate that there are some expenses that will be necessary. Get a good quality helmetSkip the cleats and just ride flats for now (saving on shoes right there) Consider taking the bike in for a minor service and check up to ensure it is in good nic and that there are no unexpected issues (for example no sealant in the wheel)On the matter of tubeless or not. Most will say it is a non brainer but others would also argue that just going with slime in tubes for now should be fine, for a start if the wheels has not yet been converted I would say stick with the tubes. other additional stuff include- foot pump- chainlinks (for the chain type you get)- multi tool- water bottels - tire levers- CO2 and adapter. - gloves - some eye protection I know it sounds like a lot but it is there to not get stranded. If need be buddies you ride with could also help. Anyhow. this is just a start and have fun going through the classifieds, checking the specials on cycling websites and always looking out for the next upgrade. The all part of it but the most important is just to enjoy yourself.
sa-shooter Posted January 28, 2018 Author Posted January 28, 2018 Thanks for all the advice guys. Much appreciated.
Mojoman Posted January 28, 2018 Posted January 28, 2018 I had the GT Avalanche 1 as my first bike (well, first one with disc brakes anyway!). Solid and is still part of my life, we have done many, many thousands of KMs together. At that stage back then I was 110kgs, over the years its now around 85kgs. Slow process but if you make cycling part of your life then it makes weight loss a lot of fun!
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