Beginner; New Bike; Fresh Start.

GarryA87

Afternoon

I used to ride a lot but havent for about 10 years.

I go to the gym for cardio and weight training 3 times a week and eat healthly all the time but i feel my general fitness is lacking i am slightly nervous about doing long journeys on a new bike and being knackered all the time... i want to enjoy riding.

The bikes i am looking at are

Giant Rincon
Kona Fire mountain
GT Avalanche 3.0
Specialized Hardrock Sport
Carrera Vulcan

Are these a good choice for a first bike (budget £350) as i wont be doing any hard, rugged, bone crushing trails just yet.

Just after some initial advice.

Many thanks,
Garry

supersonic

Have a read of our What Hardtail thread in the Buying section for some good value and popular options.

Can you try any out?

GarryA87

Thank you for the quick reply, i will have a read (sorry, probably jumped in a bit quick to make a new topic!)

I am planning on going to halfords at the weekend (haha, just kidding) there are a few porfessional bike shops around my area that i am going to have a chat to as i could easily buy one online but its nice to see, feel and test the bike of your choice.

Are they any things i should be looking for?

supersonic

For 350 quid try and ensure the fork has hydraulic damping, as this really improves control off road. Hydraulic brakes are a bonus, but not at the expense of a good fork.

Carrera Kraken is a great bike for the money.

Flenser

Check out the Commencal Normal Disc on Merlin Cycles for £349. :wink

http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/custom-mo ... -2009.html:

GarryA87

Thats for the commencal, looks good.

Went into a local bike shop today and they recommended the Scott Aspect 55

I cant find many reviews on it though, anybody have a verdict on this?

Pretty much the max ill pay at £429... lol