I need help finding a bike. As my first MTB what u guys recommend. I’m looking fuel ex 5 gen 6 vs Merlin 5 gen 3. I also seeing on Walmart Ozark Trail FS.2
by King-kong21
I need help finding a bike. As my first MTB what u guys recommend. I’m looking fuel ex 5 gen 6 vs Merlin 5 gen 3. I also seeing on Walmart Ozark Trail FS.2
by King-kong21
7 Comments
The best bike for you id say is the trek fuel ex .
A big guy like u might have a little harder time getting the suspension dialed in but the frame has a better chance at holding up compared to the Ozark and the marlin
If the Fuel is in your budget go for it. The Fuel is the only “proper” mtb. Thru axles, dropper and quality suspension are absolutely worth it. Looks like the EX also has Deore so the drivetrain is better as well. If it’s truly in play get the EX and ride the hell out of it.
Trek fuel.
Can you qualify where you’re at from a fitness standpoint…for instance, I’m 6’3″ and about 285lbs, and have been as heavy as 350. I ride quite a bit on the gravel side, but just getting into mtb. I’ve got a decent level of fitness and not sure if you’re similar, or if you’re just looking at ways to get into physical activity?
If this is newer for you, definitely look at options with more robust wheel sets. If you’re just pedaling around it isn’t a big deal, but if you start going ‘harder’ you’ll be far more likely to bend rims and spokes than someone smaller. That on it’s own is worth getting something a little higher quality.
Without being an ass. It might be better to drop a few lbs before buying a bike.
It’s been a few years now but I started out swimming dropped down from 286. Am 175 now and just bought my dream bike.
I know it a lot of work but it will be more fun and safe in general in the long run.
I hope this helps and I meant no disrespect or offense
With that weight in mind, always check the maximum capacity of the rear shock when going for a full suspension. You do want some spare capacity for that. Otherwise go for a hardtail.
So, I am your size and a few years ago I got into mtb (no jumps or large drops). I went for the Marlin 5. I liked the 2x drive train it offered and what not. In the first year of riding, I was riding a trail that definitely wasn’t the best suited for the bikes narrow tires it comes with, I washed the front in some light sand and taco’d the front wheel lol
Needless to say I definitely did add a ton of parts to it to get it where it is today (dropper, better brakes, wheels tires, forks) but that all came along as I was increasing my skills and comfort level..I learned what I wanted out of the bike and made the appropriate mods to get it there. Fun experience! But I must say, that Trek Roscoe 7 in Miami Green still calls my name from a far far place!
Message me! Id love to chat with you about this!