Reddit mentions: The best mountain bikes

Hi all, after a couple years of light trail riding, I've decided to get much more seriously into it. I'm not a fan of "weekly threads" because I've noticed they usually lead to potential new community members being ignored, causing them to never join in, so I hope I can get some healthy responses and help! :)

I used to have a Diamondback Sorrento Sport, and I loved it for commutes and light trail riding. Sadly, it was stolen and now with me recent, increasing love for riding, I'm in the market for something a little more advanced as I become better at the sport. I'm a broke college student, so my price cut off is about $450 dollars. I'm looking something that will last me a good amount of time, and will work good for a beginner looking to get into advanced trails. These are what I've found so far, but let me know if you guys have any better ideas!

Giant ATX 2 (2017) - $415
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/atx-2

I read a lot of amazing reviews on this bike, saying it's one of the best beginners hardtails. Both tires have disk brakes, and they seem to be high quality for the price point. A downside is that it only has 27.5 inch tires, and as far as I know its 29er's or nothing.

Raleigh Tekoa (2016) - $429
https://www.raleighusa.com/tekoa-2319#

This bike really pushes my price point, but I included it because it's a well reviewed, 'old', model that used to cost $600. I feel like this is an excellent deal for a beginner, and with disk brakes and 29-inch tires, it seems amazing.

edit Another HUGE plus(from what I understand) is that the Tekoa has hydrualic disk brakes, rather than mechancial

Scwhinn Protocol 1.0 - $340
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IANSJ6/ref=s9_acsd_simh_hd_bw_bEHir_c_x_1_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=M8QVAWG5RY86XC5NHPKJ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=7262eeaf-5052-5adb-871a-14e25ac2a8c9&pf_rd_i=3404721

I'm a little iffy on this one, but I simply included it for the good reviews, and full suspension. However, I'd heard any bike with full suspension that is under $1000 is probably garbage, it only has 26 inch tires and it only has a disk brake on the front tire. I'm not quite sure if this is really a good bike for an enthusiast.

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Thank you all for the help, and once again I'm fully open to any help or bike suggestions for a measly beginner!

I've been looking at a few bikes in the $500-$700 price range (original budget was $500, but have stretched it a bit to get a better bike). From research so far I'm thinking I may pick up a Diamondback Overdrive. Seems to be a pretty well reviewed bike in my price range and I'm not going to be using it for anything too serious... just to help get in shape and hit some mild single tracks.

Right now my problem is that I can't find anything describing the differences between the older models (29er's) and the newer 2016 model. I see that the 2016's have the 27.5" wheels but otherwise I don't know what the differences are. Anyone know anything about these bikes and the year-over-year changes?

Nashbar has a sale running right now so I could pick up the nashbar exclusive overdrive comp for about the same price as a 2016 sport (I've read the comp has many worthwhile upgrades over the sport) but it seems to be an older model with 29" wheels.

Did the 2016 overdrive models adopt any of the earlier Comp model upgrades? If so I may opt for a 2016 sport since I could buy at REI where I have gift cards to help offset the price.

On the other hand if the 2016's only change was to go to a 27.5" wheel I may pick up the 29" Comp since the prices are about the same for a better bike.

Or I suppose are there any other recommendations for bikes? I'll be searching craigslist later for used bikes but a quick search earlier today didn't turn up much.
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I've almost got it down to either:

1. Diamondback Overdrive Comp 29er Nashbar exclusive - $679 on nashbar after the 20% off discount - looks to be an older model though with the 29" wheels?
   
2. 2016 Overdrive - $500 - newer model with 27.5" wheels
   
3. 2016(?) Overdrive Sport - $700 - 27.5" wheels so looks to be the newer model.
   
   

Dear mtb experts, I have a nice road hybrid (Ghost Panamao X3) but friends keep inviting me to go trail riding with them in SoCa and I do not feel that riding stuff like this on my X3 is a particular bright move. So, I am in the market for a new moderately priced mountain bike (as a tall dude @ 6'4 and on a budget so I do not want to drop several thousand for a bike at the moment) for which I am considering either option 1 or option 2 (or happy to consider other options in a similar price range if I am totally missing something here). My main question; what the heck is the spring thing under the middle bar in option 1 and is that useful to have or is 2 just as good to get? Thanks for your time!

Absolutely terrible tbh. I'd really suggest against buying a bike on Amazon if you can avoid it, but if you absolutely have to it's probably best to stick with Diamondback.

https://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycles-Overdrive-Complete-27-5-Inch/dp/B0132I7496 < similar spec to the GT I linked

https://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Trace-Street-Hybrid-Bike/dp/B01ATD93B4 < kind of a "dual sport" bike, NVX fork is maybe a little better quality than some, just designed for more urban uses. 8 speed/disc brakes.

https://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycles-Sorrento-Complete-Mountain/dp/B0119ONAES < M3030 fork isn't great, but if you're aware of its limitations it'll probably do. V brakes are probably just as powerful and more easy to adjust than a lot of cheap disc brakes. 7 speed freewheel setup is a bit dated/more difficult to replace, but it'll work.

Doubt you'll find better than that if you absolutely have to buy on Amazon and if you absolutely have to stick below $350. But it's definitely worth looking into your local bike shops instead, even if just for the option to try them out first and get some guidance on sizing. Even bigger manufacturers generally have something around this price range, if you're not willing to go second hand:

https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/revel.2/22215/84076/

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/sport-mountain-bikes/820/820/p/1008600-2016

Of those the third because 1x drivetrains are magic (okay not really,) especially for someone in Florida, but tbh they all appear to have coil sprung forks which is a bit... bleh.

You're buying Diamondback because of an employee discount right? If being on a woman's bike doesn't bother you and/or you aren't over six feet tall the Rely Trail might be worth checking out. Admittedly the component list is a bit of all three of those combined , but it's tubeless ready, has a one-by drivetrain, and most importantly, an air fork with slightly beefier stanchions. The 27.5 plus wheelset will also be the most forgiving - it's a great combination for hardtails with the larger air volume acting somewhat like a little mini suspension. Geometry is a little slacker/aggressive compared to the other options which means it'll be a little more confident on the descents, but a 68 degree head angle is still reasonable.

https://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycles-Womens-Hardtail-Mountain/dp/B01LY1MY8C?th=1&psc=1
https://www.diamondback.com/rely-trail-2535

I am also a big fan of REI (outdoorsy type) but not of their premium prices. I'd first ask if you happen to have any friends that are experienced mountain bikers so you could get their help in finding something used as you will get decent components for $500. New is always hard at less than I'd say $800 usually.

The DRT uses a bunch of VERY entry level 3rd party components and an equal amount of 1st party, of which I am not sure of the reliability. However, as long as you don't start hucking too early, you should be fine on it.

The Raleigh Tokul 1 is about $450 and has a very similar spec but a better fork, more relaxed (and therefore stable) geometry on amazon here

So I'm looking for a hardtail in the $500-$800 range and I found these two on amazon. The Raleigh has hydraulic disc brakes but has 100mm on the front instead of 120 mm like this Diamondback but the diamondback has mechanical disc brakes. I would love some insight on these bikes and whether or not buying on amazon is even worth it, the 600 and 700 dollar bikes seem perfect for me but I am not sure what the best for the buck is.

Don't downvote me but look at a Mongoose (hissss) Teocali.

http://www.mongoose.com/usa/teocali-pro-20526

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M9ALTW2/ref=twister_dp_update?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Meets all your requirements except weight (because under 3k and under 30lbs is hard to do).


I have the 2015 Teocali Expert. Just got it last week and transfered over parts to convert to 1x, carbon accessories, wider bars, shorter stem, favorite saddle, etc., and it rides like a dream. Super plush compared to my HT+ and goes like a damn freight train without trying. Weighs just a hair over 30lbs with my parts and tubeless and still climbs surprisingly well. Not nearly as much peddle bob as I was anticipating.

I know the mongoose name gets hissed at here and, well, everywhere but if you actually give them a chance they make really good bikes and sells them direct online. Not the walgoose you think of. Check out some of Chris Akriggs. He puts them through hell as do the whole mongoose team.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlDRdRQc9oQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSMqAR2_EBk

I found this bike at Goodwill for $75. Ain't she pretty? Theoretically the Mantis Orchid (Amazon price $189.99) is a women's bike, but it's mine now, so it's a sylvar's bike.

I knew that the Goodwill website had a "25% off one item" coupon for Earth Day (remember that, it'll be important in a minute). But when I tried to use it, I was told that they don't accept online coupons. If I wanted to get 25% off (and who doesn't?), I'd have to print it out.

Now I was approximately 10 miles from home at this point, but I was only a mile from the nearest chain pharmacy that could print photos from an app on my phone. So I downloaded the photo, sent it to the photo lab at the pharmacy, drove a mile there, picked up my coupon printed beautifully on glossy color paper, drove a mile back, and presented it to get my discount... on an eco-friendly vehicle... for Earth Day.

The good news is that I followed up with Goodwill and they confirmed that their policy is to ACCEPT online coupons. Next time someone wants the discount, they won't have to go through such a rigmarole!

As soon as I properly adjust the brakes and derailleur, it's time for a... Bike ride! :)

This is the bike I got, on a 15' frame, and the wheels are 26'. I went up to the bike shop and he said it was the right size for me. I fully intend to replace the seat if it screws me up too much, but there is no way to tell until I've used it awhile.

I absolutely intend to stick with it, and I am still excited even though my whole body seems to perpetually be in pain and I am too scared to turn corners on it. lol. I'm not going to quit practicing as I want to be trail ready by this summer when we go camping. I think this is a big step toward greater fitness and I feel really awesome about being an active person instead of a desk potato.

As a user of one i'd second Giant as well.

Got me a somewhat cheap Giant about half a year ago, picked up a Sedona for about $280 after taxes from a local shop and it came with 6-months of free tune-ups and tire repairs and was worth every penny. So much better than the pacific stratus(this thing) I had before it and great for riding around town or along the river.

Costs more of course but it's just flat-out better in every aspect, looking at one of those 3 brands are really worth considering if you can afford to squeeze those extra dollars into a bike.

> GT Palomar BH18 2015 mountain bike

Well for $350 I expect more than V Brakes, and a 21 speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain. The bike is also made of steel which is unnecessary on a mountain bike.

GT is one of those brands that makes really crappy bikes along with really nice bikes. Diamondback and Mongoose are 2 more that come to mind.

If you have a strict budget you would be better off with this less expensive bike.
http://www.amazon.com/Genesis-V2100-Dual-suspension-Mountain-White/dp/B00CN8EIIC


If you can stretch a little Id recommend an Airborne Guardian for $599. Looks like they are temporarily sold out though.
http://www.airbornebicycles.com/products/guardian

I'm really interested in the BBSHD and I went to lunacycle to check it out and there's so many addons and whatnot what do I actually need and what would just be icing on the cake?

• What does the bottom bracket size do? There's standard, fat and extra fat, it it like standard for a normal bike and fat for a fat bike? And furthering this question what are the advantages/disadvantages of a fat bike vs. a normal bike?
  
  
• What are the advantages/disadvantages of a steel chain ring vs an aluminum chain ring?
  
  
• What are gear sensors for and do I need one?
  
  
• What battery should I get, I want the longest lasting so that would be the one with the highest amp-hours, not the highest voltage?
  
  
• And lastly would [this] (https://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-Timber-Bicycle-Wheels-Medium/dp/B0183SF32K/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1468771079&sr=8-4&keywords=steel+mountain+bicycle+mens) be a good bike to convert with a BBSHD? And if a fat bike would be better do you have a recommendation for a fat bike that's not too expensive?

I've been bitten by the MTB bug recently and my old Target Schwinn isn't doing it. Looking at a couple Diamondback Overdrives as I have a large amazon gift card laying around

Can someone tell me what the difference between these two bikes is?



Overdrive Comp

Overdrive Comp Nashbar exclusive

They're the same price, so which would be best? Thanks!

Hoestly, trek and specialized are overrated to me. I went with a couple of Jamis' bikes and love them . OR, amazon has Diamondbacks for $599 that are solid bikes. recoil 29er full suspension... here's a link

Diamondback Bicycles Recoil 29er Complete READY RIDE Full Suspension Mountain Bike

http://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycles-Complete-Suspension-Mountain/dp/B013VEFIZS/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1462922707&sr=1-2&keywords=diamondback&refinements=p_n_feature_six_browse-bin%3A6404043011

Just build your own. That way you can get a decently equiped bike that won't have entry level tourney parts. Ill admit tourney isn't bad but for over k id go better. Also this way you can get a mid drive for half 700 bucks less than any other option. You are going to want a mid drive since you are taking it off road. I wish you would go regular mtb than fat bike 600 plus bucks and mechanical disc brakes is kinda bunk for a mtb. A plus bike gets you more bang for buck, Air fork and hydraulic disc brakes.

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https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Wolftrax-Alloy-Shimano-Deore/dp/B07PQN4CHH/ref=sr_1_86?keywords=fat+bike&qid=1558403328&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-86

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https://www.amazon.com/Sensored-Electric-Bicycle-Conversion-Display/dp/B07QNY9L9H/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=mid%2Bdrive%2Bebike&qid=1558402961&s=gateway&sr=8-15&th=1

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0BNI7Y/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B01M0BNI7Y&pd_rd_w=0n3gr&pf_rd_p=8a8f3917-7900-4ce8-ad90-adf0d53c0985&pd_rd_wg=7j2DI&pf_rd_r=5F1ATDYEHQ7BY6KBGE0N&pd_rd_r=c1e68d31-7b6b-11e9-9511-65a57d25cf2b

Schwinn Protocol version 1.0, red, dual-suspension. The economic solution to a sweet commuter mountain bike.

Thank you for a reply, with details! It is a kind of sketchy price range, but I have friends that say they've bought bikes from walmart or department stores around here and they hold up well.

I live right across the street from the most reputable bike retailer in my region. I am going to see what they have before I search more online, I mean, I still have the idea of what bike I want.

I am a beginner, however, I am taking some trails that scare me at times (at that's the point). Really steep hills (so I need disc brakes), and sometimes rocky terrain. Occasional loose dirt (I tend to clean that up), etc..

EDIT: The retailer across the street also does free maintenance on bolts, nuts, screws, gears, chain, cables, and inflates your tyre to correct air pressure.

I like the Schwinn Bike