Which beginners bike?

Donatello
Donatello Posts: 20
edited March 2012 in MTB buying advice
I have my eye on a Saracen Zen 3 hardtail in the classifieds but not quite ready to go and buy it... If I do miss out (I will be gutted) I will need to look at new bikes in my budget. I'm 6'2" so before testing I am looking for 19" - 21" frames. Below are the ones I have picked out, based on style and a few basic reviews:

Cannondale Trail SL 5 - http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m1b0s2p3692

Pinnacle Jarrah Four - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/pinnacle/jarrah-four-mountain-bike-ec027473

Pinnacle Jarrah Three - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/pinnacle/jarrah-three-mountain-bike-ec027472

Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc 2012 - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/hardrock-sport-disc-2012-mountain-bike-ec030674

Felt Nine Trial 2012 - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/felt/nine-trial-2012-mountain-bike-ec032661

and the one I would love if they had it in my size :(

Commencal Premier Pro 2011 - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/commencal/premier-pro-2011-mountain-bike-ec026751

So, any recommendations incase I miss-out on the Saracen??

Comments

  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    Forget the 'lardrock'.

    What budget, for £500 the default choice if the Rockrdier 8.1 from Decathlon.

    Simon
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • Donatello
    Donatello Posts: 20
    Well it started at around £700, but for my absolute lack of any ability I think more expensive equipment can wait. Also have a baby on the way so should reign it in a little.

    My other half says £400 but I could get away with £500. I see the RR mentioned alot, I assume it is better than all of the above then?

    The only one in a LBS would be the Cannondale, I have seen some Carrera's at Halfrauds but yet to go and try any on so to speak.
  • El Zomba
    El Zomba Posts: 164
    Donatello wrote:
    I see the RR mentioned alot, I assume it is better than all of the above then?

    Damn skippy, sir! The Rockrider 8.1 has the best spec by a long shot. I'd go so far to say that it has a better spec than a lot of bikes at twice the price. The admins should really make a sticky for this.
  • Donatello
    Donatello Posts: 20
    Sorry, I know it gets posted alot. Unfortunately, the number of variants most people have in their quest for a new bike, mean a sticky might not help?

    I have no Decathlon stores near me I don't think, will check it out.
  • El Zomba
    El Zomba Posts: 164
    No need to apologise, it's what forums are for! :wink:

    It's true what you say about variation, but I think that tends to happen higher up the price range. Someone who posts up 'I've got two grand flapping around in my back pocket, what do you recommend?' has their cup runneth over with choice (although chances are it's going to be a Canyon). For beginners, returners and people on a restricted budget, the Rockrider really is best in class, which is why it should be stickied, because as you said before, yours is a question that gets asked a hell of a lot!
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    While the RR 8.1 is the best specced, it is very XC orientated, the other value options are the Carrera Fury or Voodoo Hoodoo from Halfords at circa £500, not quite the value of the RR but very good none the less and ride slightly differently which may (or may not) suite you better.

    Simon
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • chez_m356
    chez_m356 Posts: 1,893
    an alternative with a 120mm RS air fork http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/product ... tain-bikes
    Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc 10- CANYON Nerve AM 6 2011

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