As with many who show up here – i’m currently in the market for a beginners MTB.
My wife and I recently had a great experience riding some beginner trails out here in Dubai and we think this could be a great weekend family activity with our daughter.
Long story short, i’ve been tasked with researching and getting her a bike under a certain budget. USD 571 or AED 2100.
For myself, i’ve already ordered a Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 (Galactic Grey). But for her shes firm on the budget, so i’m going to have to stick to it.
Based on her budget – these are the two bikes i’ve found.
1. Fuji Nevada 29 4.0 Limited MTB [(Link)](https://cyclesouq.com/products/fuji-nevada-29-4-0-limited-mtb?_pos=5&_sid=bf78824c0&_ss=r)
2. Fuji Nevada 29 1.7 MTB [(Link)](https://cyclesouq.com/products/fuji-nevada-1-7-27-5-mtb-satin-grey)
The price for both is exactly the same, but looking at the specs – there are a few differences. The problem is, what i read is pure jargon to me and i have no idea what any of it means.
Which one of these is the better one, considering she at best would move to intermediate trails and nothing beyond it. Basic dirt road riding, no mountains or technical trails.
Thanks in advance!
by hnainaney
4 Comments
They both look pretty much the same to me.
The biggest weakness with both will be their 3x drivetrains. 1x are a lot more reliable and modern, and in the UK at least you can get bikes with 1×10 or 1×11 around that price.
I’m curious what trails you’re riding in Dubai? I assumed it was way too hot there to ride a bike.
They are pretty similar, but I’d get the 1.7 for the 3×8 gearing. You also get a slightly better rear mech and fork lockout function.
7 speed gearing on the 4.0 cannot be easily upgraded, you’d probably be looking at a like for like replacement.
Whether you choose to upgrade or not, 8 speed opens up a lot more options and you can go to 9, 10, 11+ speed without changing the rear wheel.
From my own experience be sure that the color of the frame and helmet is good together and in perfect harmony. Than anything else…
But I like the Fuji 1.7 too for that price. I don’t know how in your country but we have a really good price and specs for beginners on Decathlon bikes. A lot of people ride them and like them as a first step into biking.
Buy used so you can sell for what you paid after she loses interest