what is the best mountain bike under $300?

Question

i looked at the mongoose balckcomb but was wondering if there is something else out there?
thanks

Answer 1

The thing with "mountain bikes" in that price range is that they are usually only good for pavement or light offroading. Unless you are very proficient, these bikes can't really withstand truly rough cross-country or downhill (with vertical drops) rides.

For around $300, I would go for something like the Trek 3700: http://www2.trekbikes.com/bikes/bike.php?bikeid=1014600&f=18

or a Specialized Hardrock XC: http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?sid=07HardrockXC

Those are solidly-built, if uninspirational bikes. I would take those over that Mongoose with the cheap bouncy suspension. You really don't want a full-suspension bike in that price range-- They don't have preload or lockouts, which means the simple bouncy spring will soak up all your pedaling power and make it very difficult to pedal fast or climb hills (not to mention the suspension system adds weight). A hardtail is the best choice for that price range.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

I would check your local Craigslist.com. I have found many $1000.00 bikes for the price range you are in. You really need to do some research on your needs though. Saying mountain bike really is like saying I want a vehicle!!! Go to some of the popular maker websites like Trek, Gary Fischer, Santa Cruz. Read up on the different types and look at the specifics and why those attributes are on those styles of bikes. ex.(suspension styles, brake styles, frame dimensions) There is no reason buying a full suspension bike when you are just going to riding around on the streets and parks.
If you are looking for a new bike, talk to several bike shops and ask them about older models still unsold in their shops.
Hope this helps.

Answer 3

The last entry gave very insightful opinions, and were spot-on in my opinion. I would only add that when dealing with mountain bikes in your specified price range that fit and aesthetics are of more of a concern than quality. Most manufacturers will offer limited lifetime warranties (and most frames will be built by the cheapest manufacturer). This leaves component quality to be a deciding factor. I feel that when this difference is spread between two different bicycles with a difference of say $50, that the total difference between bicycles isn't entirely noticeable. Simply put, $50 spread out over the entire bicycle doesn't allow for substantial gains in performance over another closely priced bike in the same category. This cost difference must be applied to the entire bicycle so figure it out. Ride 'em and find which one works best for you. That being said, the Gary Fisher line seems to offer value.

Answer 4

The best bike for you is the bike that fits you. Go to your local biek shop and get fitted first! They can then recommend bikes in your price range for your body geometry. If your bike doesn't fit you won't get the best efficiency or quality of ride out of it. Your best bet is a local shop. They usually do financing too so if you find a sweet ride in a higher bracket you can finance it! The key is fit, not brand. If your bike doesn't fit you, it's not even worth riding.

Good luck!

Answer 5

like the other guy said buy the brand names.

also if you are buying a entry bike or your first one, then a $80-(walmart-Brand: NEXT) is perfectly the same as your $300.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4231518

Lastly you dont need disc brakes...rim brakes are perfecly fine.

it's your choice, not mine so stop asking =]