Ridgeback Storm 2012: best rigid MTB under £500?

tykeyred

I have been reading this site for advice on a new purchase. My 1994 Marin was recently stolen so I'm back on the market. Was thinking of an MTB hardtail but although there are some good bikes out there for up to £500, the thing I keep hearing is that they are let down by the front shocks which are inferior.
Came across the Rideback Storm which has a good review and is more after what I need. Not bothered about front shocks but nor do I want a hybrid. Feel that this gives me options should I wish to do any light trails.

Can pick one up for about £450 from a local dealer. Any opinions on this? Should I consider any other models?
Thanks in advance.

supersonic

Have you got a link to the exact bike?

There are some good bikes with decent shocks for £500 though.

tykeyred

Link below

http://www.ridgeback.co.uk/bike/storm

supersonic

Looks decent enough, but is geared more like a 'hybrid' with the larger than usual chainrings. Narrow tyres too, which sort of hammers home it is intended for easier or drier trails and paths.

same sort of thing, though slightly more road biased:

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stor ... pping#tab2

Is a hell of a lot lighter.

For a full on MTB at 500 quid the Decathlon Rockrider 8.1 is as good as it gets.

tykeyred

Thanks

Whilst looking around, found this:

http://www.ukbikesdepot.com/m15b0s2p708 ... _Bike_2012

currently £250 off normal price. Worth a look or not?

supersonic

It's on the money at 400, was not worth the RRP. Fork is adequate.

Swervin Mervin

I test rode that ridgeback bike recently and thought it very very nice. It was light and strong and definitely felt like a quality product.

I went for a Boardman in the end but tbh, it rides little differently from the ridgeback which was cheaper.