Mountain bike recommendation

[abaez]

My sister says her fiance wants a new mountain bike for his birthday and has asked if I'd pitch in.

Before I do, I want to make sure she's going to get him something good. She said he is eyeing this one: http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/bik/1021995042.html. I don't really have any idea whether it's good or not, but what does everything think? New, it's $1,300.

Does anyone else have any other recommendation in the 800-1.2k-range? He's actually a surfer, so I'm not sure how much he'd use it, but I don't mind contributing for something that is quality and will last a few years. I just want to make sure we aren't missing some other bike/deal that costs the same but much better quality/value.

Thanks

 

[theflyingpig]

Mountain bikes are so limited. Might I suggest a horse? Horses can traverse a dizzying array of terrain, quickly and efficiently. Consider this; horses have been used as transportation and recreation in mountainous terrain for centuries, and mountain bikes have barely made a dent in that kind of history. It is also possible to armor a horse. Sure, you could armor a mountain bike, but who would ride that? An armored, mountain dwelling horse is by far the better choice here. Make your sister proud and buy the guy a horse.

 

[thedarkwolf]

What kind of riding does he plan to do? Thats obviously a downhill bike and will be heavy as hell and suck for everything else. mountain bike forum

 

[FirewolfX]

HUFFY /thread

 

[Don Vito Corleone]

Yeah, that is a purpose-built downhill bike, and will be totally unsuitable for any other purpose.

It's a little hard to recommend buying a used MTB unless you have a friend with some expertise to examine it. Since it's winter and the economy is so shitty, you can probably get a great deal on a new bike. This also offers the significant advantage of professional fitting and the ability to return it if you buy the wrong size.

 

[abaez]

Thanks Don Vito. I'll try to steer her away from buying that and maybe just going into a bike shop to get one.

 

[virtuamike]

Versus Cycles

Herb is my neighbor

 

[JImmyK]

http://www.specialized.com/bc/....jsp?spid=40123&eid=95

Solid frame can be upgraded for years to come....