Now that spring seems to be coming around, I'm in the market for a new bike. I'll probably go over to Academy since they've got the best selection. Anyways, what are some feature that I should look for? I'm assuming I should get a 26" bike, right? Also, how many speeds should the bike have? I'm looking forward to hitting the trails now, because running is damn boring.
I'd go to a bike shop instead of Academy you'll get better advice and a better bike. You definitely get what you pay for with MB's especially the components (derailers, cranks, etc.) Shop around you can get a nice all around bike for $500.
I think a bike shop would be better than Academy also. You could probably get a great deal on a 2002 model. I think you can a very good bike for a little over $300. The next price point would be $500 which allow you to get better shocks and will be a little lighter.
my advice? Don't try to jump over the Great Wall... if you do, make sure someone takes your picture while you are doing it...
Damn, either I'm getting slow in my old age or I need to come here on the weekends more often...Castor and Rockets2K used up BOTH of the best jokes already!
Thanks guys. I'll be making the purchase next weekend. And did I mention how boring running can be? Oh, and I remember the Great Wall pic. Funny stuff.
I was just lucky, I very rarely make appearances on the weekends either... Thanks to Castor for not taking both of the good biking jokes in one post.
FOr most bang for the buck, considering you are wanting to spend under 500....try a Specialized Hardrock or a Trek 4500-4900. The reason I recommend these bikes is because they have very high quality frames. The components are not in the upper echelon of the spectrum, but if the bike has a good aluminum frame, then you can always, as you become a better rider, upgrade the components. I ride a Trek myself, but my first bike was a Specialized Hardrock. I had great luck with it. Here's a link to the Trek 4500 (it has the Alpha Alum. frame and a disc mount for upgrading to disc brakes): http://www.trekbikes.com/bikes/2003/mountain/4500.jsp If you want to learn more about bikes, visit this website. It's Richardson Bikemart. A great store in Dallas. They are extremely knowledgeable about bikes, manufacturers, and riding styles, etc. They have links to many of the major mtn. bike manufacturers, and most of them will help you find the right bike for the right price. If you need some more help, email me.
There are lots of good bikes you can get for under $500. As Hoop-T mentioned, Specialized, Trek. Other great brands are Gary Fisher (which is owned by Trek) Kona and Marin. The best thing for you to do is go to different bike shops (Bike Barn, Sun and Ski, lots of other local shops in the houston area) and talk to someone. Let them know what you are interested in and they will set you up. As for size, it depends on lots of factors, such as your height, riding style etc. Most shops will size a bike for you and let you test ride them. Have fun cranking!
I had a Trek 7000 and cracked the frame, the warranty coverage was excellent. Not only did they replace the frame they replaced all my componets because the frame geometry had changed and the old parts wouldn't fit. They let me upgrade to an 8000 and even replaced high end parts that didn't orginally come with the bike (I got to keep the old parts). I recommend TREK 100% I have had no problems with my 8000 after years pounding, its a great bike.
