I have some question regarding downhill MTB. I grew up racing motocross but had to stop riding due to sustantial injuries. When I stopped riding I was what was considered an "amatuer expert" or "A class" rider. I have always noticed the similarities in riding styles btween the two sports and have become very interested. I would like to see what kind of bike might suit my tastes. As far as gear goes, I'll go for Troy Lee Designs stuff. As far as bike brands are concerned I have no preference, just something that will hold up. As you know I will be an entry level "downhiller", so something more affordable would make more dollars and cents.
Want to go downhill!
- Thread starter polarbearstoe
- Start date
You should probably let folks know your body type (skinny, overweight, lanky, tank-like), riding style (do you plow through stuff or like to pick lines?), and budget.
Cool. That was going to be my first question. I'd go with something totally hott like this combo:
Seriously though, as for bikes, you may want to check into something used just to get your feet wet. The classifieds on here, MTBR, and (gasp) pinkbike should be decently stocked right now. For durability, go with something that has a relatively tried and true, unchanged design over the past few years: Turner DHR, Santa Cruz V10, Specialized Demo, etc.
Best of luck,
John P.
nelsonjm, as far as my build I am 5.7 to 5.8, 170lbs, strong upper body, I run and workout regularly. Through what I learned in moto was to pick the best possible line available, if none are present then "plow through" it. The most I'd be willing to spend now is around $1500.00.
BTW John P., that outfit might be a little too cool for me.
Thanks!
BTW John P., that outfit might be a little too cool for me.
Thanks!
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These are probably mutually exclusive statements.
Can you find something that will 'hold up'? Yes.
Can you find something that will 'plow through'? Yes.
Can you find something around $1500? Yes.
All three? Not likely.
All three? Not likely.[/QUOTE]
I see, well..., I know that I will obviously start out with a "beginner model". There will be no need for something expensive because I could get hurt or any number of possiblities dealign with the/a bike. I checked out the other sites you suggested and you are right there is a good selection of pre-owned equipment avaiable. I've seen so many brands: Cannondale, Specialized, Kona, Santa Cruz, GT, Giant, etc.., what is the best. I realize that is a loaded question, but what brand really holds true?.
I see, well..., I know that I will obviously start out with a "beginner model". There will be no need for something expensive because I could get hurt or any number of possiblities dealign with the/a bike. I checked out the other sites you suggested and you are right there is a good selection of pre-owned equipment avaiable. I've seen so many brands: Cannondale, Specialized, Kona, Santa Cruz, GT, Giant, etc.., what is the best. I realize that is a loaded question, but what brand really holds true?.
Something like this:
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/476146/
Is cheap, plowable, line pickable, and will last. I've got one and it's amazing.
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/521198/
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/586294/
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/476146/
Is cheap, plowable, line pickable, and will last. I've got one and it's amazing.
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/521198/
http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/586294/
Giant glory's are good bikes. Heavier solid build frames, good design, and a medium size would fit you well. For 2010 giant released a new glory frame so you should see good deals on older frames popping up. Hope that helps.
I would stick with the basics like was mentioned. look for a Specialized demo 8, Giant Glory, Kona Stab, etc.
Since you arn't very familiar with the riding scene, post up what you find and we'll give some opinions on it if you are unsure.
Welcome to the sport!
Since you arn't very familiar with the riding scene, post up what you find and we'll give some opinions on it if you are unsure.
Welcome to the sport!
get something popular so that u can easily sell it off again when u want to upgrade.
For stab's I wouldn't get older than 07 or 06 when they changed the geo as the old ones had really funky numbers.
Spec's big hits would be good options also.
I see you're in Georgia, so you may want to post this in the Southeast forum on here too. There are lots and lots of guys down here willing to unload their lightly used bikes for a good deal right now. Also, Craigslist for Knoxville, Asheville, Charlotte, Winston Salem are good too.
Herndon had a brand new Jamis his girl won for sale not too long ago. That way you can check it out local or go pick it up, get feedback on the actual bike from other guys around the South that know the rider and the way they treat their bikes. We'll get you something solid brother.
Butch
Herndon had a brand new Jamis his girl won for sale not too long ago. That way you can check it out local or go pick it up, get feedback on the actual bike from other guys around the South that know the rider and the way they treat their bikes. We'll get you something solid brother.
Butch