7 Hardtails Under $750 - Budget 2021 Mountain Bikes

[@calebmayer6380]

I love all of these guys reviewing bikes that aren't $2k+

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks yeah expensive bikes are nice but you don’t need to spend that much to still get out there and have fun.

[@johnsonjay60]

Yes definitely good for the growing of the bike community 🤘

[@mrdjsubz]

It's neat since tons more people are riding this year, myself included, and many people are learning the sport so companies are more interested in making the best budget rides too!

[@jev2867]

These are the guys that gets more people into biking, in this instance MTB'ing. They give new riders the basic knowledge in shopping for bikes.

[@hollowedentity7097]

I just got the schwinn moab 3. Was gonna go trek marlin 5 but local shops in ri are saying that their on back order until summer 2021. July for east prov and august for the other shop.

[@moonmanlunarian]

6:31 if you wanna jump in to the bikes

[@videorowtv5198]

Not all heroes wear capes

[@r3active__yt674]

@@videorowtv5198 it straight up said that in the vid tho lmao

[@danielnegru]

Please never stop doing this kind of videos, someday I will buy a entry bike and I for sure need all this information, thank you very much for what you doing !!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks! Always glad to share some knowledge. Good luck with your purchase!

[@corstrix7975]

1:09 Wheel size - 27.5 vs 29 2:01 Forks 3:04 Drivetrain 4:28 Headtube 4:59 Tire ( just a tip ask your local bike shop or local trails for what tires you should use) 5:56 Brakes 6:32 hardtail bikes your Welcome

[@numbcodm833]

Saved me some time, thanks bro

[@JanHarmSteenkamp]

Thanks bro

[@corstrix7975]

​@@JanHarmSteenkamp No problem, Love to help the community out whenever I can👍

[@The_RC_Dude]

Great video, I was,already familiar with 2/3rds of the bikes, but found some new ones, and got to see all the specs together again! Thanks, next time could you possibly leave some links to the bikes in the description so us lazier people can click on them? 🤣🤣 I recommend checking out some of Polygon’s hard tails, Polygon used to primarily be a popular, direct to consumer brand (no “middle man”, just like Vitus) that made bikes with components higher than their price in Europe and Asia, now they have moved to the US, but have carried over all those good traits! Anyway, there’s one bike I want to highlight in particular, the Xtrada 6. I’ll let you look at all the specs yourself, but right now it’s on sale for only $720, normally it’s $900, and still a decent value at $900! It has an 1x11 speed Shimano Deore 11-51 tooth drivetrain, yes, you read that right for $720! Now, if that wasn’t good enough, how about some Shimano hydro disks, and a 120mm SR Suntour XCR 32 LO-R (120mm coil travel, but the highest end of Suntour’s coil forks, and it has a hydro lock out, rebound adjustment, and preload adjustment!). It’s frame isn’t one to scoff at either. You can get it in 27.5 or 29, and in a 1x11 or 2x11. Wait are you waiting for?! This bike is my top pick right now for my next bike. BTW check out the pice inflations on some bikes, the GT Avalanche Comp is now a whopping $1050,00 up from $700, seriously, one is gonna buy the Avalanche Comp for that price! The Vitus Nucleus is also, sadly, up from about $700 to $950, I chatted with Vitus, and they said that’s because of the new Euro/UK trade deal, increased labor and raw material cost, as well as shipping. If the sale on the Xtrada 6 ends, check out the 5, it’s a little cheaper, with slightly lower components.

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah the Xtrada is probably the best value hardtail at the current time. When I do an updated 2022 version of this video it will for sure be in it.

[@The_RC_Dude]

@@downtoridemtb Awesome! Looking forward to it!

[@maximciubotareanu5742]

i bought a 2021 trek marlin 6 in the spring and i love it!

[@dadlife8289]

Vitus wheels are amazing. Super wide rims 30mm internal. Light as well.

[@downtoridemtb]

Nice added bonus!

[@kriszalewski8265]

Thank you for explaining all the bike jargon. Other channels just expect you to know it all even tho their video is for new bike owners.

[@downtoridemtb]

You’re welcome! Good luck with you bike purchase!

[@richieforthewin1422]

The vitus nucleus just seems like such a no brainer choice to me

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s a good one!

[@Jaysee2164]

theyre so hard to find

[@klayroach4097]

@@Jaysee2164 responding a month later to your comment and they are still just as hard if not harder smh, its sad as I would love to get one

[@robosergTV]

@@klayroach4097 Bought one today, they are still in stock on wiggle

[@robosergTV]

Its the best bike from this list for sure, the only negative thing is a 8 speed 42T drive train.

[@johnybrokeit]

Thank you for making this video for youtube! I honestly learned a lot especially about the number of teeth on the rear cassettes, the biggest and the smallest ones, and how they decide how easily u climb and (i believe) how fast your bike can go on a flat road. And learning about suspension and all... altogether, thanks : )

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to help! It’s a whole new and confusing world when you’re just getting started.

[@colinl2908]

Nice comparison. I noticed for the GT you had HTA of 68.5, when actually 67.5, so a little better. One thing I feel more people should go into is the rear dropout size. If 141 QR it could be a deal breaker due to the difficulty to find wheels. Not many people talk about it? If through axle rear...even better.

[@motov8-garage832]

The axum definitely should have been right in the middle of the list, 400$ dropper post ready 500$ with dropper post, tapered head tube, 1x 8 speed 11to 40t. Decent cheap front suspension(definitely will upgrade myself) mechanical disc brakes that are decent(will be changing pads and or get cheap hydrolic setup) Awesome frame and paintjob. Good head tube angle from what I've researched for my type of riding(better then some on the this list) 29×2.60 tires, Q-Release front and back ..The bike is newer, theres a 2020 and 2021 model. I got mine last week, all that said I am still shopping for new and used mtn bikes like this and am debating on returning this one just because i have that thought of finding and wanting somthing better lol, we all know how that goes😁 but in all honesty the Schwinn Axum should not be overlooked, you cant beat the price. Any other bike with this exact setup from a shop in town would be priced at 650-700$ in this day and time. Theres other vids about the bike on KZbin if anyone wants to check it out. Just thought I'd bring it up, because I know how it is to wana ride or get back into riding and not have 1000+$ to spend on a bike at the moment.

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah I think I included it in my 6 under $600 video. Definitely impressive for the price.

[@pidcoemw85]

I bought a rock hopper for my wife this spring for 600... companies are definitely capitalizing. Edit: another great video Brian! Solid research and well thought out comparisons!

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah it’s tough to say if they’re doing it out of greed or necessity. All these bikes are basically a proprietary frame and then a big combination of components from other companies. So they could just be getting charged more by those companies and those companies may have higher production costs causing that. Who knows but either was if you had a bike you were saving for it would be a bummer for that price to mysteriously go up. Anyway thanks for watching!

[@josephdiesing8506]

I mean… who cares? What’s wrong with a company selling something for the most they can sell it for? I don’t understand the issue with that…

[@camxiong]

I'm just starting to get into mountain biking and I bought a Talon 2 because of this video....Thank you.

[@downtoridemtb]

Great choice, enjoy it!

[@dagmac9308]

Amazing video. Best for novice. Highly recommend it.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!!!

[@TomKennedyUSA]

Thumbs up for the video! One point that all 'newcomers' and first time bike buyers should know is that ANY bike you get delivered direct to you SHOULD be setup/reviewed by a bike mechanic (optimally located at a bike shop) BEFORE you ride it. It can be VERY dangerous to ride a bike 'right out of the box' when we are unfamiliar with bike mechanics. The handlebars, forks, pedals, or seat, etc., could be slightly loose; any little screw or adjustment could be slightly off. Have the bike checked out by a pro. What this also means is that you may need to add $50.00 or so to the price if you don't get the bike from a bike shop (the bike shop typically does all of the setup and makes sure the bike is ready to ride, for free). Lastly, and just as a side note - Diamondback Hook - mechanical brakes, 32 tooth lowest gear - buyers won't be too happy with this bike once they ride it and learn more about bikes. :) All opinions are valid, with all of the points I mentioned... agree, disagree?

[@downtoridemtb]

Very valid point on the bike building. Either do like you said or have someone who knows what they’re doing help you and teach you as you do it. I do agree on the Hook, probably the least desirable bike in this video.

[@rubo1964]

you make it sound like its a rocket science setting up a bike.Anyone with basic mechanical skill and common sense can do it.

[@sheezy2526]

Have a look at Polygon Xtrada 6 and Merida Matt 7.70 if you can. They are in thr same price category I think.

[@mirmir2227]

Cannondale did raise the price to their bike line up! Last week I purchased a Trail 7 for $580, now it has gone up to $675. I am no bike expert and really liked your explanation and 7 bike choices.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for confirming that. I thought I was going crazy! Anyway glad you got yours before the price hike.

[@johnsonjay60]

Yep just got my buddy set up on a trail 4 se for 1100. Decent rig tho. Air fork w/ lockout,1x deore, hydraulic discs,plus tires. NO DROPPER...

[@charliebengirling3893]

Thanks for this great video! You answered heaps of questions I had about what to look for in a bike and especially about the headtube angle and number of teeth on the cassette. Keep up the awesome work!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks! Exactly what I was hoping to do.

[@vegasvampire66648]

I picked up a 2021 Talon 2 in XL 29 after watching your video...I am extremely happy with it. It's a tank. 👍

[@downtoridemtb]

Enjoy it. One of my favorite bike shop bikes.

[@steveward5917]

Glad to see a good video with vital information and not trying to sell a bike, this is appreciated. More like real people,

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks! It’s all stuff I wish I knew when I was just getting started.

[@womanofgoldenwords3881]

Speaking of bike manufacturers switching away from 3 gears up front, it’s not just the budget hardtails...I just bought a 3400$ ibis ripmo af and it has a 1X12 drive train with 51 teeth.... I’m coming from a 2000$ canondale trail SL1 and it has a 3x10 and wae worried my new ride wouldn’t have the same gear range but the guy at the shop assured me that the new 1X systems have all the gear range that the older 3X systems do.

[@downtoridemtb]

Oh yeah, it started with the higher end trail bikes and it’s just now trickling down to the budget bikes, just not at the range of the premium stuff. You’ll love it, all the range you had before with much more simplicity!

[@kairles]

Bike's are definitely going up fast. I bought(ordered) a Rockhopper Comp in early July I paid $849.99 +tax. When I picked it up mid August the price was at $1000.

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s insane! At least you got a good one before the prices went up.

[@david78212]

Watch out for the inventory status of any bike right now, almost all manufacturers are going through a surge in bike sales and have no inventory. Also watch out for price increases across the board. Shipping companies are increasing shipping costs for larger items, bike companies who offer “free shipping” has to put the cost somewhere, that applies to bike companies that offer “reduced shipping”. I recently bought a bike and got a “warning” email shortly after that I should make my decision fast because shipping was going to increase from $35 to over $100. “Free shipping” cost gets paid by someone (the buyer).

[@downtoridemtb]

This as very true. Many bike manufacturers have been raising prices lately.

[@hawksboy]

Thanks for explaining things in a way a newbie can understand!

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to do it!

[@maxheadroom7687]

Great video! Lots of info for an old rider looking to buy a mountain bike! Appreciate your clear way of putting over techie details!👍😎🇦🇺🤣Subscribed.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for subscribing! Glad it all made sense and was helpful!

[@eyesontoast1105]

Many thanks, great info for folk looking to get a bike without being robbed!

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to help and thanks for watching!

[@smoideen]

Thank you so much for the intro section. Especially dishonorable list. Def. Got lots of useful info.

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to help!

[@bobbyhempel1513]

I might have to look into that Vitus nucleus

[@jessesmith2906]

Good luck they are always out of stock

[@saxophoneevolution]

They are in stock right now.

[@jessesmith2906]

@@saxophoneevolution not on chain reaction for U.S. or 29” only 27

[@saxophoneevolution]

@@jessesmith2906 Yeah your right about the 29. I bought the 27.5 and that appears in stock. What helped me was putting in my email address on chain reaction so that you get email alerts right away. Also iam in the U.S.

[@robosergTV]

@@jessesmith2906 In stock right now

[@mulberry8930]

My kid (teen) is in competitive Mtb. The Arsenal of 29ers: Canyon Exceed CF 7 to race & a Specialised Rockhopper Sport for training. All other money spent: His Education.

[@downtoridemtb]

Nice couple of bikes there!

[@MicaSloan]

I've watched 10 videos and this is the first guy that's acknowledged that $750 isn't pocket change lmao

[@downtoridemtb]

I’m a man of the people!

[@555Gear]

Love that you mention some dishonorable mentions! Great overview

[@downtoridemtb]

Gotta call them out!

[@andykorsnikoff1340]

When you mention something "technical", please show it with your hands to the bike parts. It will really helps for the newbie. My 2 cents.

[@alfonsowadeyua5293]

Two thumbs up! Very informative choices and a very good introduction.👍🏽👍🏽

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@brendanjeans4423]

2021 is definitely the year for budget bikes.

[@rsrated5360]

Over here in England we have a chain of stores called Halfords , they have their own brand called Carrera , the Carrera fury 2021 is £600 and has sr suntour air fork , 1×11 Shimano deore , Shimano hydraulic brakes , wtb trial king tyres and a dropper post . You should check them out

[@downtoridemtb]

Dude that thing looks awesome especially at that price! They need to start selling to the US. That and the Voodoo Bizango.

[@katec9893]

Are Carreras decent bikes then? I nearly bought one but saw reviews online saying they can be heavy and not as good, but others saying they're good value. All of the jargon got confusing. It turned out they didn't have many in stock anyway so I bought the last Raleigh Strada X bike from a local bike shop instead which had good reviews online and felt v comfortable.

[@rsrated5360]

@@katec9893 yeah they have come a long way recently, their range is very good and well worth the money , the old bikes were heavy that's true but the new bikes are a lot lighter and much more rider friendly and more comfortable, I'm not a salesman for Halfords or Carrera by the way , just a enthusiastic mountain biker

[@itsallrobbish]

Good video, I was keen on the Marlin 7 and now I’m totally disinterested in it!!

[@downtoridemtb]

Ha! Keep in mind this is all one persons perspective on things. They wouldn’t sell boatloads of them if they were bad bikes.

[@MajorStaticX]

I'm not a huge GT fan, but I eneded up buying a GT Avalanche 1x10 from Dick's Sporting Goods, It's actually a pretty decent hardtail, I like it better than my Buddies Diamondback which I am a fan of that brand more than GT, but the GT just feels better to me, I like it so much I just may keep it in my Lineup, do some minor mods to it... Just my opinion, and i'm sure there are better bikes than this

[@nickmarquez4920]

Thanks for the video. Lots of useful info for us newbies!

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to help! Everyone was a newbie once.

[@MichaelStaAna-ef7zv]

I like the GT AVALANCHE

[@mattgeorge7127]

Thanks for the review! I'm waiting for the Vitus Nucleus VRS to become available. It was in stock for a few hours and i should have pulled the trigger on it then!

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah you gotta be quick. Good luck! It’s worth it!

[@aslmx1918]

I’ve been waiting so long. I need to reup my email alerts.

[@mattgeorge7127]

@@aslmx1918 I wake up every morning checking both Wiggle and ChainReaction. I was able to get an order in with Wiggle. Good Luck!

[@aslmx1918]

Matt George I’ll start watching Wiggle

[@deifor]

The 2021 GT Avalanche is coming with a Microshift. At least here in Canada. I have a 2017 Avalanche and it comes with a Shimano Alivio. Oh and they went on sale one summer for like 300 CAD.

[@downtoridemtb]

Imagine that $300 price nowadays. That would be crazy!

[@FoCoFlowShow]

Nice vid. That Rocky Mountain Soul gets my vote - closer to a more modern build IMO

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks. Yeah that and the Vitus are my favorites.

[@brucechavez9535]

I've got mine for only $170. A pawnshop-bought 2014 Specialized Rockhopper Comp 29er. It's already got a Rockshox fork (Tora). All upgrades I've done is changed the handlebars grip, the pedals, with Raceface pedals, and put some neo green bottle water holder, I guess I just got lucky finding a "good buy" from a pawnshop...:)

[@downtoridemtb]

I’d say that was a good find! I’ve never even really thought about checking pawn shops for bikes.

[@brucechavez9535]

@@downtoridemtb Yes, Sir, you heard that right. I'm over here in Jacksonville, FL. And there's a bunch of pawnshops around here. They always sells bikes, too, either road or MTB bikes. I bought one before in pawnshop, also. It's a made in US Trek, 26er, though. And it's old as well, I think it's like the early 2000s...:))

[@downtoridemtb]

I gotta check some pawn shops around here on a rainy day!

[@RowdyFox]

Super helpful! I've been eyeing the Talon 2 for awhile, and can't really find another bike that beats it in it's price range!

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s a good one, especially when compared to other local bike shop bikes. Some online shops have bikes that may be better on paper but they’ll never beat the local bike shop service.

[@0verfiend]

@@downtoridemtb what’s the alternatives you speak of?

[@downtoridemtb]

Vitus nucleus and some of the Polygon hardtails.

[@0verfiend]

@Down to Ride MTB i haven’t seen any polygon 1x’s cheaper than the talon 2. the cheapest polygon 1x was like 800. maybe more. i’m not sure though. i’ll look again. also, i’m pretty sure that the nucleus is not cheaper than the talon 2. if you can find a nucleus cheaper than a talon 2 i’d like a link. any other bikes that are cheaper than the talon 2 with similar or better specs? still waiting for a link from anyone for a 1x that’s not a junior bike that’s also cheaper than the talon2. the 1x storm is coming. it’s really a shame and a scam that the bike makers are only just now starting to put 1x configs on cheaper bikes. talon 2 is setting the tone. i know the expensive ones are just now getting them too, and the “fad” has basically just started, but there really is no reason other than greed not to have the 1x options on all the cheaper bikes. the talon 2 did it right.

[@gezzapk]

@@0verfiend I think the polygon cascade series are cheaper then the talon 2. Not sure what the spec are but just below its price range.

[@brafshsyt]

I just got my Talon 2, I like it but I haven’t gone off of gravel paths yet, mine came with Maxxis Ardent tires

[@downtoridemtb]

I ran Ardents front and rear for about a year. Fast tires but they can lose grip if you push them too hard in loose or wet situations.

[@neilfpv]

Glad I saw this video! I'll watch this now. The only mtb hardtail I know is Vitus Nucleus. You have 7 in the video. I'll watch now! :) Just finished watching everything. Thank you so much! For an mtb beginner like me who used to ride bmx with some tricks, can you please suggest me 3 from your list that I should continue researching? I subscribed too. 😊

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for subscribing! The Vitus nucleus and the rock mountain bikes are my favorites. Curveball for the third one, check out polygon bikes from bikesonline.com. But really in these times you just kind of have to get what’s in stock.

[@dennislarosajr7320]

I have a 2020 RM fusion so far awesome bike. But I'm loving the new geo on the 2021. Great video

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks. Yeah that looks like a really fun bike.

[@chadrector4168]

Super great video.. I'm 44 and getting back into mtb riding. I've budgeted the giver end of your reviewed units in this video! Which would you recommend? Great video!

[@downtoridemtb]

Congrats on getting back into it! I like the Vitus and the Rocky Mountain(s) most.

[@ericdolby1622]

Do a current video

[@madcapper6]

Thank you for all the great information. Seems like the Vitus is a great bike for the $$.

[@downtoridemtb]

The Vitus is great. I had one and only got rid of it to go full suspension.

[@brianc380]

That Soul MTB looking really nice

[@WOLFTICKVIDEOS]

The Kenda Amrak did not do great in our tests, but they are light and fast-ish. This list had some interesting bikes. Thanks for the video.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience with those tires!

[@danielvega2254]

Norco storm 2. Just over the 750 budget but definitely worth looking at.

[@marktardiff8030]

They went up in price they want 900.00 for them up here in Maine I believe they were 800 think I'll wait

[@marktardiff8030]

Norco storm 2 900.00

[@skovacs13]

Thanks man I enjoyed your video and there was some good info for a newbe.

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to spread the knowledge!

[@thinkpadBentnoseTheBlind]

The Kona has the perfect mix geometry wise for my size,torso and arm reach and personal desires. yet my personal desire on that would be a 26 rear and 26 front or maybe,just maybe a 27.5 for a goof.

[@downtoridemtb]

I always always curious about making a 26/27.5 mullet bike from and old 26" wheel bike.

[@thinkpadBentnoseTheBlind]

@@downtoridemtb I have a front disc, but cheap, 27.5 that I will try for fun.I can plop that on a 26'er fork with a 1.95 tire and all will fit

[@midlifeshredder]

Good stuff, been looking for a 1x hardtail for my son to get into the sport. Too bad you can’t hardly get any of these bikes right now but all good info!

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks. Yeah the supply is still lacking but a lot of online sellers have stock notifications that you can sign up for.

[@midlifeshredder]

@@downtoridemtb True, already have an alert request for the Vitus. But not expecting anything before Christmas unfortunately.

[@TheWorldisaLIE2]

yeah using the Giant website to find which shop had my size and color in stock i had to drive 244 miles roundtrip to pick it up.

[@0verfiend]

@@TheWorldisaLIE2 there and back by lunch.

[@1PotatoeMasher1]

My 2021 Talon 2 came with Maxxis Advent tires and an XCM fork for $720 so I think they upgraded it slightly mid cycle.

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah I think a lot of manufacturers have had to swap components just from an availability standpoint.

[@Hellinacar]

Thanks for the vid! Looking to get into mtb and get a good entry level bike. Looking at the Cannondale and in the Uzk the price appears to have stayed the same. Any tips for bike buying beyond this video you would recommend?

[@downtoridemtb]

I’d say get the best bike you can afford. Whatever you get will hold it’s value pretty well so if you don’t stick with it you can recoup a lot of money. $1000 to $1200 will get you a really really good bike. One that will mean more confidence and reliability to keep you riding. Or get the best you can at a lower price point and look at getting a dropper post.

[@jmoney2724]

I agree on the Trek Marlin. While the 7 is pretty good (so long as you are okay w/something a little more xc-ish) things really drop off when you go down to the 6 or the 5. Those two are each overpriced by probably about $100.00 simply due to the Trek name. As for the Trail 5, I had a 90's Cannondale F series mtb and loved it but no way that I would pay as much as they are asking for their watered down recreational level mtbs these days- They are barely above what you'd find at Dick's Sporting Goods and price-gouging during Covid doesn't score them any bonus points. I would probably go for the Vitus among these but to be fair, direct-to-consumer bikes have a spec advantage over those you must buy at a shop. I would say that this is a particularly sucky price point. At $750ish, you're beyond anything really economical but beneath anything particularly high quality in a new bike. If it were me, I'd try and save up to get to the approx. $1200.00 level where things really improve dramatically, imho, or better yet, keep an eye out for a used one for about a $1000.00. I just got a 2019 Trek Roscoe 7 for my son that was practically mint for under a grand and he's totally stoked w/it.

[@downtoridemtb]

Very good point on the $750 budget. $1200 will certainly get you a very solid hardtail. I’m wondering what’s out there under $1000. That seems like the max that 99% of people would spend if they’re just starting out. I’m guessing there are a handful of really good ones.

[@jmoney2724]

@@downtoridemtb Salsa Rangefinder Deore would be on my short list. Comes in at $1099 msrp but I've seen them at a slight discount (at least pre-Covid bike shortage). I think that REI had them for $999.00 this past spring.

[@maggiecordo6073]

Thank you so much for this video. Best entry mountain bike video out there.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!!!

[@razgriz206]

Nice video Very detailed and good selection

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@jasoncoburn8166]

vitus hands down !

[@downtoridemtb]

I tend to agree!

[@kaleblemasters8008]

I can’t find the link to the bike that is $650 with the air forks and all that rn I only have a mongoose mountain bike and it doesn’t even shift and the front forks are blown out and I am looking for a good bike to get but I don’t have that much money to spend I am still saving but I want to know a good hardtail trail bike to start saving for

[@Rompastompa71]

Great Video! Opened My Eyes To Some Great Option. Subscribed

[@downtoridemtb]

Excellent! Thanks for subscribing!

[@joshuabeemer4062]

Great video, but bottom line, which of the recommended bikes would YOU spend your money on?

[@downtoridemtb]

Well a lot has changed with 2022 models including prices going up. So in the current market I’d be between the Polygon Xtrada 6 for a direct to consumer bike or the Marin Bobcat Trail 4 for a local bike shop bike.

[@mariosdad5361]

Very good video mate congrats i am about to shop a hardtail mtb and i dont know which of these bikes would be the one. if you have to select one of these bikes which do you pick? i trust your opinion.

[@downtoridemtb]

I like the Vitus and the two Rocky Mountains.

[@keredrellit3992]

I picked up a Vitus Nucleus VR. Nice bike for the money.

[@downtoridemtb]

Awesome that you got one. They’re hard to find in stock. Enjoy it!

[@rhysm4831]

Lots of useful info here. Thank you.

[@downtoridemtb]

Right on, thanks for watching!

[@crispyMP3]

Just got a 2018 Fuji Tahoe 1.5 for 600$ today 😁

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s a really good find!!!

[@j.s9875]

I think i am going for the bobcat trail 5, it looks sooo good.

[@downtoridemtb]

It is indeed a good one and they have made some improvement for the 2022 model. Stay tuned to the channel because I’m going to get a hands on review of one in the next couple weeks.

[@franciscoferreira6]

I really enjoyed the video and there is a lot of good info on it especially for someone newer to the MTB world. But I was wondering in your opinion which of these is best.. I'm honestly slightly more inclined towards the Vitus because of the air form but the avalanche and the soul seem really good as well.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks. I’d had a Nucleus and really liked it. Only sold it to go full suspension because I have some back issues. The Rocky Mountain and GT both look good too though. They are probably my top 3.

[@Flamin111]

Vitus is probably the best value for money for bikes up to like 3k range this year... The only problem is they are always out of stock

[@franciscoferreira6]

@@Flamin111 true I was looking for it on the posted website and all colors and all frame sizes (including the different wheel size for each) is out of stock. It's incredible. Just hope the prices dont skyrocked because of it

[@Flamin111]

@@franciscoferreira6 Yeah im waiting for one of their higher end bikes to come back in stock, its kind of ridiculous.

[@sirshanksalot1]

What do mean by “I found”. They’re completely sold out everywhere.

[@downtoridemtb]

Fair point

[@user-lm8qg8lb4u]

I think you should review the Merida big nine 20 it's cheap a good bike from the specs I think, it cost 800 AUD but would be cheaper depending where u live

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s about time to do the 2022 version of this video so I will definitely keep that one in mind.

[@TheRealSimeon]

This was really informative, thank you

[@downtoridemtb]

Glad to help!

[@fj3271]

@Down to Ride MTB hey man I'm getting a new mountain bike for Christmas and I'm trying to get into mountain biking. I saw this video and I think its great you provided everyone and me with good information and you suggested good begginer mtbs's. I looked at both the RockyMountain and the Vitus and I decided that I'll get the Vitus my parents will give me some extra money to get it. But I have a problem and I need some help I looked at the Vitus Nucleus 27 and 29 Vr and I realized that the 27" has 120mm of travel and the 29" has 100. I don't know which will be better I'm around 5 foot 9 and I'm 16. I will mainly use the bike for commuting and taking on some trails and mild jumps which will be better the 27 inch with 120mm of travel or the 29er with only 100mm of travel if you could help me out and maybe some of the viewers that would be great enjoy your day everyone and keep up the good work with the channel.

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks for the compliments! I think I’d go for the 27.5”. I didn’t even realize the travel was different.

[@fj3271]

@@downtoridemtb Hey thanks for the answer man. You helped know what bike I want to get by making this video and providing me with an answer. Thank you one more question I'll be using the bike for commuting as well on normal roads will the 1x8 be ok at that?.

[@downtoridemtb]

It will be ok. The fastest gear is the 11t which is pretty much standard. Bikes with more gears give you better slower climbing gears (at least in terms of 1x drivetrains). But aside from that, no mountain bike will be great on trails and on roads. The better is at one the worse it will be at the other. Locking out your fork will help but you also have extra drag with knobby tires.

[@Jonathan-jq5cl]

0:44 thank you for realizing thats a lot of money, I’m 16 and I went in to a bike shop to fix my 250$ bike and they told me that I basically shouldn’t be mountain biking unless I spend 1000 dollars on a bike built for riding on dirt. No offense to all the people who use daddy’s money but some people have to work for there bikes and a grand is a lot money to a 16 year old.

[@hussamalnajjar1596]

Facts lmfao I can’t find a good bike for the money I got

[@downtoridemtb]

Schwinn Axum is the best cheap bike out there.

[@Mike_B_724]

Really dig the Vitus Nucleus, but it appears to be unobtainium at the moment. Can't find it in stock anywhere.

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s hard to find. Set up the in stock alert on chain reaction cycles and act fast when you get it.

[@Tom3294.]

@@downtoridemtb how often do they go in stock? I’m hoping to get one this week🤣

[@downtoridemtb]

@@Tom3294. it’s unpredictable. Good luck!

[@blackbeansmatter1280]

Budget bikes used to come with 3x chainrings? I remember high end Kleins with that drive train lol

[@downtoridemtb]

That was before my time riding. I guess it’s come full circle.

[@blackbeansmatter1280]

The 80's and 90's were rad but man these bikes have progressed beautifully.

[@Buckeye_4_Life_]

My local bike shop is selling the Fuji Nevada 29 (1.7 & 1.9) from between $600 - $700.

[@downtoridemtb]

I don’t know much about those but give them a ride and see how you like them.

[@Buckeye_4_Life_]

@@downtoridemtb Would it be cheaper to order a bike directly from the manufacturer ...?

[@downtoridemtb]

@@Buckeye_4_Life_ thats only possible with certain “direct to consumer” brands

[@Buckeye_4_Life_]

@@downtoridemtb Gotcha. Thanks..!

[@downtoridemtb]

Welcome! Good luck!

[@Seanothannn]

The Talon 2 isn’t a one by. I mean it is but that’s the US Version. The UK Version is the simple 2 by 8 set up.

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s a bummer. Never understood why they change stuff from country to country. For the longest time the Talon 1 wasn’t even available in the US and now it finally is.

[@Seanothannn]

@@downtoridemtb yeah. I honestly thought I was about to get a 1 by 9 but I received a 2 by 8. I was pretty upset but you know, I’m just going to change the group set in the future once things start wearing out!

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah that’s a bummer but it will give you a chance to upgrade to something even better

[@21Sanco]

The Kona LD the Best

[@EireFirst2024]

Suntour coil forks are clunky junk, & tektro brakes are below quality in my opinion, great video 👍👍

[@bobbyhempel1513]

I have the 2020 Giant talon 2 it's way better than that 2021 one but I did spend $800 as opposed to $650 I'm going to upgrade to a one by system on it soon but it's not going to cost me very much money because I'm going to go with a micro shift which is a very inexpensive yet high quality drivetrain. I bet you could get last year's model for the same process this year's model

[@matthewgrossman4032]

Excellent video. I appreciate the work you put into it. As I was watching the video the Schwinn Axum DP came to mind. $500 but it really seems comparable to these bikes minus hydraulic brakes but has dropper post. How do you feel it fits against some $250 more?

[@downtoridemtb]

I really like it and really want to buy one honestly. But... I do worry about some of the hidden components (bottom bracket, hub bearings, etc) that companies can often cheap out on. If you don’t mind tinkering with things and replacing parts as they wear out, then it is probably a good one. Otherwise, stick to a bike shop bike.

[@matthewgrossman4032]

@@downtoridemtb Thanks. I appreciate your input. I don’t mind tinkering and think it has a reasonable skeleton to start with. Now it’s just a matter of finding parts 😉.

[@downtoridemtb]

Good luck. Lots of you tubers out there modifying them so you’ll have plenty of inspiration.

[@bindingcurve]

@@matthewgrossman4032 So, did you buy it? I picked up a Axum standard for $400 and returned it. EVERTHING needs to be replaced and endued up buying a used Trail 8 for $240. That will need everything also, but better starting platform and I don't NEED to replace things right away.

[@matthewgrossman4032]

@@bindingcurve I did buy the DP medium. It was a great starter bike . Probably put 2-300$ into it and over time sold it as it only whetted my appetite. Good bike to start with imho if you are willing to upgrade.

[@anthonyperez6421]

Have you taken a look at the Polygon Xtrada 6? It's within the same price range and I believe it's compatible with many of the bikes on your list.

[@downtoridemtb]

You are correct. Polygon makes some good value bikes and they definitely should have been in this video.

[@Papajimm]

Have you covered the Giant STP? Would love to know what you think.

[@downtoridemtb]

Interesting, I had never seen that before. 26” wheels were the standard for a long time but have pretty much been phased out for mountain biking. If you like a more playful bike of something that is more flickable on jumps, then you’ll like it. But if you want to plow through rock gardens and downhill tech, then you’ll be better off with 27.5” or 29” wheels. It seems to have some quality parts on it given the price point.

[@jerrypeevey]

Thanks but I went with the Axum ,,free dropper post. As you say I can build what I want as my skills and needs grow. Ha Ha my Trump check is going to buy my Rockshox forks. Another 200 for hydraulic system for my disks and a box chain derailleur with shifter and it will be set up better than these ? yeah I went over 750 but if this 65 yeat old fart can't ride the mountains and I am stuck to the soft trails and bike paths then I saved a ton. Just my though on it :

[@motov8-garage832]

The axum is a great choice in my opinion, I got one also. 400$ for the model without the dropper post. I can live with that. And theres alot of room to upgrade, and for the price the bike is a great deal. It really should be in this guys list. It's not as great as the #1 bike in the list but it's atleast a couple up from the last bike on his list. Shoulda been right in the middle.

[@Pshpshpshpshpshpshpsh]

This has restored my faith in my GTAvalanche! Haha though it’s the 2020 edition

[@robert50173]

Great content. I ride my bike both for street and trail. 2 x ___ for me.

[@downtoridemtb]

Definitely good to have that extra range in the road.

[@jallen1227]

Course, my 29er with SRAM XX1 highlights a pretty good gear range for a 1-by system.

[@codyphillips48]

The avalanche comp is now 950 on gt site. I've seen it on other sites around 800ish but like everything else it's out of stock.

[@downtoridemtb]

It’s crazy how long it’s taking the supply to bounce back. Good luck on your search!

[@codyphillips48]

@@downtoridemtb yup. I've been on a wait list for a Rockhopper sport for 4 months and now the price of that has gone up to $700. I just bought a aggressor from dicks with there cyber Monday deals and the points I had.

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s cool, the Aggressor is very similar to my first bike. Glad you got something that you can ride and upgrade as needed or sell and get something better once more bikes are available.

[@jhojansjoysc7513]

any advice on good mountain bike for traveling from state to state through trailers parks, rocky roads, hard to ride places, with trailer attach to it... looking to buy soon for long journey trip any advice Dear brethrens under $600

[@downtoridemtb]

I’m really not sure $600 is going to do it. Sounds like you need something ultra reliable so that is usually more cost. A 1x drivetrain is easier to keep working properly. A coil spring fork might actually be better because they are easier to maintain. Marin Bobcat Trail, Polygon Xtrada and Giant Talon are all with considering.

[@davidknox4702]

Great video mate👍

[@downtoridemtb]

Thanks!

[@bowieread6355]

Although you can’t change the head tube angle do you think if you ran a 29 wheel on the front and a 27.5 on the rear luge a staggered setup would that make the head tube angle more raked out ? Also would the smaller wheel convert more pedal force in relation to rolling speed while pedalling

[@downtoridemtb]

That’s called a mullet bike and it is somewhat common. If you’re saying, add 29 to the front of a 27.5 bike, yes it will have that effect but it will also change all other parts of the bike geo which may not be good. Doing the opposite, putting a 27.5 rear wheel on a 29er will lower the bottom bracket too much and you’ll get pedal strikes.

[@vintensity09]

Thanks for this video. Vitus is always out of stock. Does Giant Talon 2 and GT Avalanche have a tapered headtube too?

[@downtoridemtb]

Talon 2, no. Avalanche, not sure but I don’t think so.

[@SMSCOOBY71]

This is the problem, the genral public are talked into believing that a $750 bike is just a "budget" bike and is the bare minimum you can get away with which is utter nonsense. Bikes that cost $2000 upwards are professional level bikes that require a level of skillset just to ride properly that the vast majority of the public don't have and have no intention of gaining either but they feel pressured into buying these bikes as they are "real" or "proper" mountain bikes. It's like Hi Fi speakers, even the best speakers in the world sound shit with hardcore drum n bass music. The bike snobbery is a huge problem, always has been in the world of cycling and is only getting worse as the manufacturers grab onto the "social media" generations need to have the biggest & best regardless of whether they can actually justify it. My advice is buy a bike that suits your budget and just ride it to death, if it fails quickly then move up a budget level and do the same, and keep doing this because as your budget level steps up then your skill set steps up with it as you learn by your mistakes and failures. Going out and buying a 2 grand bike just to have a "proper" bike is money wasted as your skills starting out will result in you wrecking a bike worth more than your first FOUR bikes if you take the progressive route I advise. The big makers need to go back to basics and produce a wide selection of entry level bikes again instead of the quick cash in on high end bikes for the smaller customer base.

[@bindingcurve]

Look for used. The $400 Walmart bikes cost that for a reason. I tried HARD to by one, ended up returning 4 sub $500 bikes and got a used Trail 8 and Checkpoint ALR 5.

[@pepeanza6187]

You are wrong shure you can change the head angle you can put a longer travel fork will slacken the head tube angle you can use angle sets in the in the bearings of the head tube, all of this cost money but you can change the HTA.

[@downtoridemtb]

I knew somebody would say this. Yes you can do those things. Doesn’t mean you should though. Longer fork travel will do as much bad to other aspects of the bikes geo as it does good to the head angle. Angle headsets are expensive for what is essentially a bandaid solution.

[@pepeanza6187]

@@downtoridemtb You can always go 10-20 mm on the fork max for what it came stock, My point is that HTA You can change it at some point sometimes is better and other don't, there are other thing that You cant change like chain stay lenght, top tube leght, the most important thing is geting your right size from the start that You get a bike

[@DannyPacheco-j6f]

I checked giant website and the giant talon 2 is a 1×11-42 not 12-46, I guess they changed the specs since video was made..

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah happens sometimes, especially now with production shortages

[@Omen6]

The soul 20 you showed and the specs don't match up! The 2021 Soul 20 comes with Deore shifter and derailleur. You were reading the specs of the Soul 10 (but pictured was the Soul 20). Not a knock! Maybe you were talking about the Soul 10. Great vid nonetheless.

[@downtoridemtb]

Yeah these were 2020 models. Not sure if that has anything to do with it or if I just screwed up 🤷‍♂️