So I’m thinking of getting a new mountain bike. I started riding some single track last year and really enjoyed it. I was riding with a cheapo department store mountain bike and think it’s time for an upgrade. One thing that I have definitely seen when looking at bikes is that they get insanely pricey very quickly. I’m hoping to get into some downhill next summer with the bike while still doing single track. Another important factor is how much I am looking to spend. I’d like to stay between $1000 and $2000 for now and know that choices are limited at that price. I’ve also looked for used mountain bikes on Craigslist even though used mountain bikes can be a little sketchy but there isn’t much available in Michigan. I know it may be hard to pick a bike that’s not a dedicated downhill but can still take the abuse of dh tracks and I can still ride it on local single track trails but I’d appreciate any help.

Any ideas?

 

I don't do DH so this may not really work for you but I love my Specialized Camber 29er. You may also want to check here:

http://www.localbiketrader.com/

 

I love my Specialized Enduro

 

Dang $1-2k for a your first bike! I dropped $800 on mine and 5 years later still kickin some a$$ on it. Here's a recommendation for you... Try renting some bikes before buying. All bikes are different and fit people differently. I started out thinking I only wanted Gary Fisher, but ended up buying Kona. Also, you'll need to decide what type of riding you'll be more in to as, full shocks are better for downhill, but hardtails are more ideal for climbing. I did this and test rode 5 bikes before purchasing mine. Also, the most important part of a bike is the components. For reference Shimano makes a lot of parts and I'd pick the bike I like with nicer components vs style.

Hit me up if you want more specifics.

Good luck.

 

Yeah, I guess If I figure if I'm going to do it, I'm going to try and do it right the first time. Also, I plan to get a full sups bike and know that to get a full suspension bike that can take some abuse for dh, you have to up your budget a bit.

I'm going to rent some full sups bikes at a dh location this summer and see what I think of them. Good tip!

 

Anyone have any experience with Santa Cruz bikes?

 

If your looking to do moderate downhill and still be able to pedal uphill or single track I would look into a specialized enduro or trek remedy, both are very capable. I personally have the remedy, which I got after selling my demo (downhill bike), and I can't say how much happier I am being able to pedal up and have enough energy to enjoy going back down.

 

That helps knowing what you're planning on riding. ... I had not heard of them before I went and test rode some bikes, but I ended up with a Kona. www.konaworld.co m Check 'em out. Not carried at all stores. Oh, one more thing. Do not buy from big box stores! Find your local bike shop and have them help you. They typically offer free maintenance and know more about fitment, etc. my buddy and I both bought bikes at the same time. Me from local shop, him from REI. He's had equipment issues, and horrible customer / maintenance service. I've been nothing but happy with my local shop. I've taken it in multiple times expecting to pay for repairs and the guy (who I originally bought from 5 years ago) just fixes it on the spot and sends it back out. I've since bought my wife and sons bike from the same shop. Probably cost me a bit more than these other stores, but worth it in my mind.

 

Santa Cruz Butcher is a nice bike and in your budget. One of my buddies has one.

I don't own a santa cruz. I ride on an older model Intense Uzzi SLX.

 

Check out a website called "pinkbike.com". if you have not heard or checked it out yet. Its a like classified website as well as info on bikes. Great site. I have bought a couple bikes and sold one as well as parts.