Reaching out to you Pac Northwesterners that mountain bike! I've been out of the game for about 10 years and want to get back into mountain biking this summer, but realized so much has changed since I used to ride.

What are some good bikes now days? I want to get back into rock-hopping trail riding, but also some long distance moderate trails, so rear suspension is not really that important to me, but maybe. What brands or models should I look for now days? Anything i should stay away from?

Thanks,
-Raceen

 

try and find a leftover 'rocky mountain'...made in canada up until 2 years ago..incredible bike

http://www.bikes.com/main+en+01_100+...CATID=1&Y=2010

 

what is your budget?

like locally built - Ellsworth (made in Vancouver, WA)

I also like Ventana made in nor cal

 

I ride a Santacruz blur. It is a great bike with awesome tech. If it were me I would be between Ellsworth and santacruz. Both are outstanding.

 

If you looking for used bike, check this link. Lots of good bikes at low price.

I ride a Santacruz, very good bike.

http://buysell.nsmb.com/

 

Try not to get sticker shock! A "good" hard tail is now around $2k, & a FS is $4k. If you still got your old bike, I suggest you use that for a few rides to make sure you still want to do it. I used to ride a lot, & last summer took it up again, did a few dozen rides now it sits again, hopefully seeing some mud this year. I hated being out of shape, sucking wind on hills, & I hated that when I fall it now hurts, & hurts more the next day.

 

Moots makes some of the best mountain bikes you can buy. http://www.moots.com/# They are Ti frames and only come as a frame. As to what place locally to go to, http://www.velocevelo.com/ They are in Issaquah and are one of the best places out there. They will help you in terms of what to buy as well as getting properly fit. Go for a couple of test rides and I’m sure you will find something you like. One of the most knowledgeable shops in the NW. They can also get you in touch with some group rides and cool trails.

 

I've got a Kona explosif. I absolutely love it. Some other good bikes are Specialized, Marin, and Seven Cycles. Make sure they have quality parts, most cheap bike company's can fool you with parts that look better than they work.

 

If you like Bontrager I would look at Rock Lobster. Scott Scale series is a very nice ride. Personally when it comes to Mtn Biking I just like the bikes that were made in the 90's.

 

I was in a similar situation. I used to mountain bike exclusively 10 years ago, then switched to road riding and just returned to MTB last year. I bought a FS Rocky Mountain. Amazing bike but it was too heavy for me (27 lbs) and always rode with the rear susp locked out. So I decided to go back to old school, sold the Rocky and bought a Trek 8500 Alpha Red hardtail. It is much lighter, nimble, and perfect for the riding I do, mostly XC and singletrack. I am not a big downhiller.

Just like a car, go ride both and try renting before you buy and go on some rides. The folks at the shop can help hone in on the right level of components for the price and type of riding you do. Have fun on the trails.

 

i ride a santacruz blur. love it

 

Nothing wild and crazy has happened with mountain bikes in the last 10 years. Disc brakes are a little better. Same with shocks. Everything is made out of carbon.
(kind of boring really... does anyone else pine for the mid 90's era of brightly anodized aluminum parts?)
I can't argue with the Santa Cruz/VPP suggestion... they are some of the best, IMO.

 

Sweet...you guys rock. I actually printed out this thread yesterday and took it with me bike shopping.

Few things - like you guys said, prices have quadrupled since 10 years!! But kind of expected. You guys have helped me narrow down my choice of brands, but models, components etc.... still need to test drive a few to see what is really important to me and what I can do without to help with costs. I might even go used once I figure that out, as suggested.

I'll keep you updated...hopefully I'll be riding soon.

 

Any real bike company (bike store bike, not wallyworld) will have good bikes, & you do get what you pay for. Any hardtail in the $2000 range will be a good bike. Just get one that fits & drives well. That is where the difference are.

 

Second Ascent in Ballard often has a few really nice used mountain bikes. It might be worth a look if you're nearby. Good deals on skis too - their used gear is generally in great shape.