Hi! I’m trying to get into riding, but i dont have more than $200 to drop on a bike. I know my options are extremely limited with this budget, but based on the options, which do you feel would be best for long term learning? it could be 6m-2y before i can afford another bike. thank you for your input 🙂
by Intrepid_Guava422
6 Comments
At that price point, I’d try to stay away from full suspension. Between the other two I’d pick the one that fits you best. Go online and look up basic bike fitting. The new one is labeled as a medium but the Gary Fisher frame looks like a large or xl, based on the length of the steerer tube. This is something that you should confirm before buying. The better bike will be the one that fits you better
Never get cheap rear suspension, the first one seems to have weird geometry so I’d say out of these 3, the 3rd one. However don’t expect anything amazing at that price point, something will break as soon as you take it off road.
At that price I’d be looking for an old, used, hardtail with mechanical brakes. Can have a lot of fun on those 2000s specialized, norcos, etc
I don’t suggest you get any of those. At least look to get disc brakes. Like others have said, avoid full suspension in most cases.
Generally, stick to name brands like Giant, Trek, Specialized, Marin, Jamis, Gary Fisher. I don’t think you’ll see much else on the used market. Avoid Next, Schwinn, Kent, etc. (Excepting the Schwinn Axum or Kent Trouvaille if you even see those used for ~$200)
Edit: If you’re really limited to those three bikes, the Gary Fisher probably has the best drivetrain and I’d prioritize that. Bad shifting can have a really negative impact on a ride.
That looks like a pretty big frame. Be sure to find something that fits.
I’d poke around for a used Trek Marlin. A lot of people bought them during the pandemic and rode them twice before never riding them again, so the market is saturated with like-new Marlins. If you’re just getting into riding, it’s a great entry-level hardtail for little money on the front end. Best wishes.