Hey MTB,
I'm looking to purchase my first proper hard tail as I have been riding my brother's 2014 stump jumper hand me down for the past few years.
My budget is ~$1500 and one limitation is I need to purchase from REI as I have saved up rewards points as well as gift cards.
I've been looking at the following options:
https://www.rei.com/product/198727/co-op-cycles-drt-13-mountain-bike – I know this likely won't be the reddit favorite as it is REI's own brand but it looks to have good component value for price.
https://www.rei.com/product/208116/cannondale-habit-ht-2-mountain-bike
https://www.rei.com/product/244564/salsa-timberjack-slx-29er-mountain-bike
I'd call myself a beginner and would be using this for a big mix of riding including trail riding but sticking to midwest blues and greens.
The biggest hang up on the cheaper bikes is the Judy fork, but at my level I'm not sure I'd notice the difference. Is it worth the extra money for the Salsa?
by ElderStank