Which bike?

adtheincredible
adtheincredible Posts: 40
edited May 2008 in MTB buying advice
Hi, I am in the market for a new bike in the £1,500 to £2,000 price range.

So far there are two machines in the running the Marin Mount Vision and the Whyte 19 Trail.

The Whyte appeals to me because of the spec and the weight and the Marin appeals to me because of its looks and all the great reviews (although I have been unable to find out how much it weighs ((any help?)).

There are a few places local to me where I can go and test the Marin but I havent yet found anywhere to test the Whyte.

What bike do you think would be the best for mucking about in the woods, going on club rides and the commute to work and back?

Also is there any other bikes I should be considering?

Thanks.

Comments

  • Drunkenmunkey
    Drunkenmunkey Posts: 28
    A Commencal Meta 55 either XT or 551 would be well worth a test ride, the XT is 28.5lbs with 5.5 inches of plush travel, no pedal bob and gives you massive confidence for DH. The Marin has less travel [as far as I'm aware] and weighs around the same with slightly steeper angles [more edgy downhill].
    The Whyte 19 is also very nervous apparently.
    I thoroughly recommend that you try a Meta, I've had Specialized, GT and Marin [Mount Vision] in the past and the Meta is in a different league - especially for the price.
  • adtheincredible
    adtheincredible Posts: 40
    OK, thanks. There is a new shop just opened near me that stock Commencal so I'll head on down there for a test ride.
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,665
    Not sure about the weight of the mount vision, but does it really matter that much to you? It will be light enough.
  • adtheincredible
    adtheincredible Posts: 40
    I guess its not a major issue but at the moment I have a freeride bike that weighs about 38 - 40 lbs and when going on rides I always seem to be at the back (not too much downhill action where I live) so it would be nice to have something reasonably light.
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,665
    The mount vision is definitely in the lightweight class, but it will handle more abuse than you'd think.
  • toasty
    toasty Posts: 2,598
    I'm loving my Meta so far :) I've only had it a week or so, it's done about 60 mile or so though. Including my first run of Dalby Red, never been there before, 23 miles was a bit intimidating too, the bike was fantastic though. So confidence inspiring, came out with energy to spare and easily ate all the hills. I don't think I've ever had that much fun on a bike!

    I guess it depends where you're riding. I've got a hardtail I use for commuting/road rides (with slicks) and faster trail riding.
    Stumpy FSR 29er

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