All Things Bikes and Tacos! (...and every vehicle imaginable)

Honestly the best thing to do is to rent a bike and take a lesson from a professional - that way you can learn some new techniques and try the newest bikes and have a blast! Win!

And watch the world cup DH racing that is about to start!! gonna be insane this year!-

 

Cant wait for this season!

 

Oh dang nice! My sb6 is my first Yeti I love this thing! The new sb5 LR sounds pretty bad ass too.

 

Expect anywhere from 250ish to 500?

 

I think honesty may be your best policy. Check out a bike shop, most are pretty chill and won't try to sell you something you don't need... not where I live, at least. Just let 'em know what's up and try out a few different bikes - see what fits your budget, your riding level/style, and what feels comfortable.

 

I just like the extra travel for riding lifts at the bike park and it pedals better than most other options in its category so it’s still super fun out on the trails. All the bikes these days are so fun!

 

Don't showcase bikes from your local bike shops (Test ride, find your bike, and buy online). And don't be a tire kicker. Bike shops always have honest hard-working riders and the best thing you can do is support their careers and purchase from them.

 

What a time to be alive! Capitalism is a beautiful thing

 

Well I would approach it the same way I approached buying my Tacoma. Go try it out and if I like it and the reviews are solid buy it. That said if my Toyota dealer had a stupid high mark-up I wouldn't feel compelled to buy from them just because they took me on a test drive, you know?

 

Totally. I can see where you are coming from. But also keep in mind the two products you are referencing; a $40k truck and a $500 bike, apples to oranges. The industry is centered around customer service and that has value in itself. Much of the time I purchase parts from my local bike shop (even though it may be more expensive) due to my relationship with the guys and the many times I call on them and they are willing to help at no cost whatsoever.

 

Hm, I figured the really good bikes are at least a few grand. I mean I probably should get an entry-level bike but also want something built solidly.

 

I was under the impression you were looking to start out. But yes, if you want to dive in you will want hyrdro brakes, 27.5" wheels, quality suspension components, and modern geometry. More than likely you are looking at $2,500 with all those variables...used

 

Yea thats what blows my mind. I use to own 3 bikes that this bike replaced. I had a trek Fuel ex8 for longer rides. A specialized enduro that was my main squeeze, and a Kona stinky for downhill. The Sb6 literally does this all soo well. Its a beautiful time to be a mountain biker!

 

Ooof. So we are talking ~$3500 for a fully kitted out mountain bike new?

 

It's subjective as to what "kitted out" means. But you can definitely get a quality bike for $3500 new.

 

So much research to do but this seems like a great way to stay in shape and have an excuse to take the truck out om trails.

 

the new breed of bikes cost more, its true, but the technology is solid and worth it in my opinion as a bike guide / instructor. Bikes are more reliable, stronger and more fun than ever before. The tradeoff is that you have to stay up on your maintenance and learn how to fix things on your own. there are many resources to help you out.
webstites like pinkbike and vitalmtb are good starts
pinkbike is the "go to" for used bikes and parts.

Just like w Tacos - there is a lot to know about modern mtn bikes

 

I generally recommend people that ask my advice is to spend their bike budget when starting out on a quality hardtail. The cost of a quality full suspension bike is generally much higher than a quality hardtail. They are good entry level bikes that help you develop skills and technique without breaking the bank. If you enjoy the sport and think you will be committed to it, then pay for the quality full suspension either by saving for the second bike in the quiver or selling the hardtail. I've found that a full suspension bike at the same price point of a hardtail isn't going to be as rewarding due to the compromise you are buying.

Just my $0.02

 

I couldn’t agree more. This is exactly what I have recommended to all that were interested in getting into the sport for the first time.

 

Thanks for the site info, I needed a good go too for some stuff on my new bike. I'm thinking of doing Sram eagle and they have a nice video on there now I need to figure this PF30 POS BB take down!