The recent value-focused Field Trip series saw us review eight trail bikes that all come in at a price that's well below that of the $10,000 super bikes that occasionally show up for review. We all know you don't have to be a dentist to enjoy yourself out there, but all eight also proved to be more reliable than some of the broken dream machines we saw last year. Not only that, but you'll also find modern geometry from the $1,400 Bossnut, AKA the Boss of Low Cost, to the $3,149 Norco Torrent hardtail.
No, things weren't perfect - there was a quick-release rear-end in the group, along with a few questionable brake and tire choices - but the gist is that you could choose any of these eight bikes and have a good time for a long time.
So, let's do exactly that in today's poll.
4 Trail Bikes Under $3,000* USD
4 Trail Bikes Under $2,000 USD
The year is 2020 and you're ready to spend your state-rationed corona coins on a new bike for those social distancing trail rides. Do you choose one of the direct-to-consumer full-suspension rigs to get the most bike for your buck? Or maybe you're the type that's always going to spend those bucks in your local shop? Would a hardtail make your shortlist?
161 Comments
And more on preference... They're not really in the same catagory. The Commencal is a 150/130 bike with pretty average all-around geo, while the 160/147 RAF is has geo much more suited to the rowdy crowd.
With pretty much all Sea2Sky riding, I wanted 2 things over all others (of course, very personal): Great suspension and great geo for steep and challenging terrain. Based on what I've read about all these bikes and the numbers game, I made a great choice. And I apologize to everyone that doesn't want to hear me yell about it, but I'm going to keep yelling, because it's a hell of a deal for aggressive riders on a budget.
Additional caveat: I've got a modern aggressive hard tail and dedicated DH bike, so the suspension trial bike needed to fit a particular gap in my quiver.
That was what you were saying right?
PB Buy&Sell now is, for financially savvy 'Murican's buying Canuck bikes, like shooting fish in a barrel.
I don't like the loading gif on their website is all.
I'd much rather they post a date when they are to be expected, as they are doing, than simply take your money and string you along like some companies do.
Not exactly the best time for manufacturing and shipping in the world these past couple months. If a guy can't realize that well...
The ethirteen parts work fantastic in my opinion
From 2k category hard to choose since i would pay more for better bike for me or my family, just because it worth it to pay for better at the beginning then upgrade later
I used to live in the Alsea Falls area in Oregon and rode there daily for a while. My son was stationed at Whidbey NSA and I have ridden there a lot on my ancient Ritchey full rigid. Also a lot near Bend, OR on that same Ritchey. All three are great places to ride.
But the Hebrides are magic. It's not just the terrain. My wife and I rode out to a 1500 year old ruin once. And to a Prehistoric Pictish settlement that we were told about.
We have been to castles from 800 years ago that are still inhabited. To the Island of Vallay which was abandoned fairly recently, and the village of Hallaig that was depopulated during the clearances. So much history that we just don't have here in the USA.
I haven't ridden the old postal trail on Harris, nor the trail from the Bridge to Nowhere to the Butt of Lewis. More to see!
And Scotland's right of passage laws make for some wonderful trails. And the people are marvelous. Not sure if you will like a particular beer? Have a sip of mine! I have had that happen more than you can believe.
I don't dislike E-bikes in principle, but I like the fitness factor of DIY
so good!
#hardtailpride #hardtailforever
Another typical case of "straight to the comment section"
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