Second hand Dawes XC 2.4 as a starter 1st MTB

Jon114

Hi all,

Picked up a 2nd hand Dawes XC 2.4 yesterday, it'll do as a starter mountain bike for me, big aspirations, small budget and not much time on my hands at the moment, so thought this'd be a good place to start?

It's not new, but with a little TLC it should be a good bike. What are your thoughts?

The front forks are not lockoff, should I look for a s/h set on Ebay, or just get used to riding it first?

Keen to know what the pro's suggest?

Cheers all

Jon

cooldad

Depends what the forks are. Lockout is not really important IMO.

coulddobetter

Ride it and change bits as an when required. Another who rarely bothers with lockout even on roads.

Jon114

Thanks for the advice.

What are your thoughts on kit? What items do I need to look for in your opinion, (1st off helmet - yes I'm that new to it, (I do have an old one), but what in your opinion is a 'good' helmet)? Two friends of mine were saved by helmets over the years, my helmet is of dubious origin though - possibly Aldi years ago now - rather embarrassing, but honest.

Cheers

mcnultycop

Unless the helmet is broken just wear it. Nothing wrong with a cheap helmet if it fits.

cooldad

What he said^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Fit is most important, but all helmets sold in the EU comply with minimum standards.
So try some on.

stubs

If the helmet is over 5 years old get a new one, budget about 30 to 35 for a nice one.