Beginner MTB bikes help

[Professor29]

Hi Guys, 

 

I'm new to the forum and to mountain biking (i have been on a couple of rides already with hired or a friend's bike). 

 

I'm looking to purchase my own bike and i have the following choices in a small frame offered by three different cycle stores (There isnt much stock in the market currently (no Merida small frames) nor am i familiar with the different bike brands). 

 

1. Signal S920 https://signalbikes.co.za/products/2020-s920-mountainbike?contact_posted=true#contact_form - R12k just not sure on the brand/qaulity but the specs look great and its a light bike.

 

2. Momsen AL 429 - https://bike-addict.co.za/collections/momsen-hardtail-1/products/momsen-al-429-2019 - Decent bike specs being a 2019 model

 

3. Specialised Rockhopper Expert - https://www.specialized.com/za/en/rockhopper-expert-29/p/175108?color=290761-175108&searchText=91120-3502 - abit on the expensive side but seems to be a trusted brand

 

Please let me know what you think of the three bikes? happy with any other recommendations ro pointers. 

 

Thanks 

[porqui]

Hi and welcome !!!

 

How tall are you and what is your inseam measurement?

 

Bike size is VERY important and you do not want to get it wrong.

 

How did you come to the conclusion that you need a small?

(Male or female?)

Edited August 9, 2020 by porqui

[Chadvdw67]

Check about a Silverback Slade Comp

[Professor29]

Hi Porqui,

 

Sorry should have provided more info - I'm 1.6m male and the inseam measurement is 69cm.

 

I reached the conclusion after going to a store and trying out a medium/small 29ers frame bikes, they suggested a small.

[porqui]

Hi Porqui,

 

Sorry should have provided more info - I'm 1.6m male and the inseam measurement is 69cm.

 

I reached the conclusion after going to a store and trying out a medium/small 29ers frame bikes, they suggested a small.

 

Keep in mind that it is better to have a frame that is slightly too big than one slightly too small.

Also keep in mind that the sizes vary according to the manufacturer - granted not by much.

Edited August 10, 2020 by porqui

[Me rida my bicycle]

In this case I would go for the cheapest option. Same gears it has a 32 air shock compared to the 30 on the Momsen the Spaz is just over priced. The Signal also has best geometry of the 2 and looks good.

Plus with the money you save you can always spend on upgrades later or on decent kit.

[Professor29]

Thanks Porqui, I will definitely try out the medium before I make a purchase. Is there any specific things to watch out when sizing based on your experience?

 

Thanks Me ride my bike, the signal bike was also quiet light. Wasn't too sure if you could upgrade it - what items would upgrade at a later stage with this bike or kits to consider?

[Eugene]

Thanks Porqui, I will definitely try out the medium before I make a purchase. Is there any specific things to watch out when sizing based on your experience?

 

Thanks Me ride my bike, the signal bike was also quiet light. Wasn't too sure if you could upgrade it - what items would upgrade at a later stage with this bike or kits to consider?

No.. At your height/inseam a medium will be way too big.

 

You should be looking at a small or even extra small.

[Richard tiplady]

At that price very hard to beat a Norco Charger. Don’t know where you based but in Gauteng Wes or Ian at Melo vello are your boys.

[Professor29]

Thanks guys - looks like i'm keen on the signal bike (reasonable price with upgrade capabilities). Norco looks like a great bike - just out of my price range for now.