Deciding on new bike

Rhys091

I'm looking into buying a bike but I don't know which is the best bike to start with. A couple of years ago I was into BMX however i've always enjoyed riding in general. I'm looking to get a bike to ride on roads/cycle paths but would also like one suitable for some slightly rough terrain (few bumpy dirt tracks through fields, woodland etc... nothing drastic). Don't intend to be doing jumps on it.

I've seen 2 I like the look of:
Carrera Subway Hybrid £240 - http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/hybrid-bikes/carrera-subway-hybrid-bike--medium-18
Mongoose Vanish for £250 - http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/mountain-bikes/mongoose-vanish-mountain-bike#tab1

Would either of these be a good starting point or can anyone suggest anything else to look at? I only want to spend a maximum of £250 for a starting bike.

Thanks

IDave

Nope, both are awful!

Read this:

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/article/b ... 500-29451/

chrisw333

In fairness, any bike at that price range is going to be limited, so to say they are awful id harsh - I imagine they are as good or better than most other bikes out there for that price.

You are along the right lines, with that budget the best options are likely to be from Halfords (avoid applollo) or Decathlon. Go Outdooors are also doing some good value bikes.

You may also want to consider a hybrid bike for your riding. Of course, if you go second hand you may be able to get a lot more bang for your buck.

WhyteSky

Definitely buy second hand.

You'll get so much more for your money if you do your research and be patient in your search.

Fat Tyre John

Between the two I like the Carrera because of the rigid fork and better parts.

33whitey

The Subway would do the job. I had one for 18 months and used it firstly for forestry roads and latterly natural trails and some of the Afans runs. It was a good introduction to cycling and sold it on for £150 8)

I didn't half get some funny looks from the "serious" mountain bikers, when they came across a fat bloke and his dog coming down zigzags on a Halfords Rigid

It'll be more than adequate .

Rhys091

Thanks for the replies, much appreciated. Ive had my eye on the Subway for a bit buthavent been sure its the one to go for.

Those who suggested looking second hand, what should I be looking for in my price range?

IDave

The Subway is very heavy for a bike with a rigid fork. Can your budget stretch to this:

Carrera Vulcan

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/m ... -medium-18

or this:

Rockrider 520

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/rockrider-52 ... 93188.html