mountain bikes

[Budza]

I just bought the GF the A80 - its got mechanical disc and cost R3500 if i I recall correctly. Its a decent starter bike - its Scotts budget brand. For her it was more than adequate - myself I have a Mongoose Tyax Comp which suits me fine!

Remember its not only the bike cost but also the helmet, camel bak, computer etc etc. That being said I was adamant i'd only buy something with discs as I don't want to upgrade immediately due to bad components.

J

Also looking for the wife. Hydraulic disks would be better, even if I need to go second hand.

I assume she'd do more braking that I would- I'd fly downhill and she'd be braking all the way, so some assistance would be welcome I'm sure

 

[nakedpeanut]

i been there actually, saw my ass down the mini rock face by the stream, lol.

cool didnt know they rent.

how about some advice on the above nutsickle, u also ride dont u?

So majority of the advise is good here.
I'd take the girlfriend with and go try the bikes out. You get a good feeling for size of bike you each need. You can go and get yourself measured and all that but i feel that's a waste of money.

You will also have to decide on the type of frame you want.
I'm currently using a GT Zaskar frame M or S can't remember, but I use it for trail riding and jumping. It's not really a jumping frame but it works well for me.

I assume you won't be jumping, or doing any hectic down hill type stuff, so those strides do look good.

Ya sure you can go balls to the wall and look for the best Shimano components etc. Will you notice it? I doubt it very much. That said I wouldn't go and buy the bottom of the range either
I'd focus on finding a bike that has disk breaks, lock out shocks that have a controlled rebound and a decent number of gears (3x9). These three things will make the most difference to you ride imo.

I would check out the hub, and see what they say.
Go look at Cajees cycles in East Rand as they have a decent variety of bikes for you to try and get a feel for what you like. Then shop around for the best price

As for accessories.
I just bought a nice Bell Venture helmet R600 ish. Don't go for that Mr Price Sports crap please
I wouldn't buy cleats (clip in shoes) yet. They do help you with power and controlling the back of the bike easier. But it's safer and better to learn without them.
Get a decent pair of MX gloves ~R250. You will thank me later
A CamelBak is also a must. I love mine. But they can get a bit pricey. So a water bottle will do for now.

EDIT:
You will also need a nice multi allen key tool,
puncture repair kit,
2 plastic tyre levers,
chain lube,
pump.

 

[Zulik]

Do some reading at www.thehubsa.co.za.

There is also a big classified section.

There is great value in second hand 26ers at the moment.

You can easily buy an almost new bike at half what you'd pay at a bike shop.

If you're not sure what you're buying, arrange to meet the seller at a bicycle shop.

 

[shubz]

Bought myself a Raleigh Hydra 29er at Makro for R3500. Had a 24inch Mongoose prior, must say was sceptical of the Raleigh but enjoying it thoroughly now. I'm not hardcore into the whole mountain bashing but took it on one of the Tokai trails without hassle, IMO it serves my needs and for the price I paid I think it was a great deal.

 

[D3x!]

sizing, any specific guides?

I searched a few online, it reckons I should be a medium, does the wheel size come into effect? I.e a difference between a 26 and 29? I found a 29 at a good deal but the frame is a large so don't think I could use it efficiently? (not too keen on knocking my balls everytime)