Which hardtail MTB

[Schmuck_on_Wheels]

I am looking to upgrade my old Cannondale with a new 29" hardtail.

I have been advised that some of the smaller Web only firms offer better value than the likes of Specialized, Cannondale etc.

Could anyone point me at some manufacturers that may be if interest. Budget is around £1000 to £1500 and most of my riding will be on trails such as Hadleigh.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Drago]

Why the requirement for a 29er in particular? Are you after up to the minute bling or beautiful workmanship? Would you prefer alloy or steel, or even perhaps Ti? We know where you'll be riding it, but how hard/fast? Even your age and fitness levels could have a bearing on the ideal bike for you.

I'm in the middle of building up a Pace frameset st the moment, having ridden one and liked it a lot. Could be worth a look for you too, but you need to get yourself out there and ride a few.

 

[Schmuck_on_Wheels]

Why the requirement for a 29er in particular? Are you after up to the minute bling or beautiful workmanship? Would you prefer alloy or steel, or even perhaps Ti? We know where you'll be riding it, but how hard/fast? Even your age and fitness levels could have a bearing on the ideal bike for you.

I'm in the middle of building up a Pace frameset st the moment, having ridden one and liked it a lot. Could be worth a look for you too, but you need to get yourself out there and ride a few.

I am 42, 6'2", 14st and reasonably fit.

I am after something that climbs well and is comfortable for two to three hours riding over rough ish trails. I am no going to be jumping rocks or any of the other technical stuff mainly due to being self employed.

Alloy is my preference. I visited the Specialized shop in Chelmsford yesterday and really liked the Crave Pro.

 

[Venod]

How about this,

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/CBOOPWX9/on-one-parkwood-sram-x9-mountain-bike

 

[Drago]

I did't like my carve. Limited mud clearance on the rear, wheels too flexi for a meaty man.

 

[vickster]

Paulscycles normally have some deals on last year's MTBs

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m1b0s155p0/Mountain-Bikes/Front-Suspension-29ers

Otherwise I think Whyte are highly regarded for the genre, don't know on 29ers though

I'm sure specialized's relatively high prices for spec cross into their MTBs also

 

[Kestevan]

How about this,

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/CBOOPWX9/on-one-parkwood-sram-x9-mountain-bike

+1 for the on one.
I'd have one tomorrow if it wasn't for
A) I've got a broken knee atm
B) I'm skint
C) Mrs kes will skin me if the next bike in the shed isn't a carbon road bike with her name on it.

 

[Schmuck_on_Wheels]

The Bird Zero range look very good value. Can anyone give it the thumbs up? I realise the wheels are 650b but that should be OK. My main concern is that I would be unlikely to be able to try before I buy.

 

[Schmuck_on_Wheels]

After a bit more research it looks like the Whyte 901 suits my needs. My wife has already collected hers.....