What's the best bike to buy?

Question

I am not exactly a beginner, but I haven't ridden in a few years. I have done a couple of somewhat advanced trails several years ago. I want something that I can do pretty moderate to hard trails but also do easier bike path riding too. I'd like something that will last a decent amount of years. I am hoping to only spend no more than about $300 or so. I have been looking at Diamondback and Mongoose, although I recently have heard a lot of recommendations to Giant bikes. Advice?

Answer 1

My advice would actually be to stay away from Diamondback and Mongoose. Unfortunately, their quality has slipped since they began to sell their products on the mass market and in "big box" stores such as walmart or Dick's Sporting Goods.

I would go to a bike shop and look at a major national brand. In the $300, you are looking at a near entry level bike, so I would go with something with good customer service and warranty. Check out bikes from Trek, Giant and Specialized.

Answer 2

Understanding your budget... I would stay away from Diamonback and Mongoose. As a rider, I would suggest Forge Bicycles, they are awesome bikes for the spec to price. You can find them on mtbr.com or forgebikes.com. I bought one a year ago, I also applied a 10% coupon by googling "target coupon. Highly recommend. Or, alternatively, you may want to consider the Giant Boulder, but don't get the steel model, make sure it's aluminum. More importantly, ride and have fun!!! Let me know what you decide on.

Answer 3

go for KHS, Trek, Specialized, and Giant
stay away from Mongoose, Raleigh, and Diamondback

Answer 4

specialized and gary fisher as well as cannondale makes great bikes. i have a corratec which i boutght for 400 and the retail is about 900. bike shops also have great prices on old bikes. that would honestly be the best way to go. bike shops also may give you a year of free bike tuning which isn't to bad.