Why I Gave Up On Fancy Bikes: The Truth You Need to Know

[@magicunicorn6535]

Most of us don't ride like the pros in the videos. We ride simply to enjoy the trails, the scenery, the exercise, and a nice day.

[@zzxx33mh]

..yes.. no matter less or more,.. just get out ,..and ride..

[@gen-zeke-8571]

I find camping videos like that too. One guy por gal goes pout and makes enoiugh food for 3 nights, and they call it "survival". A mile is a Mile.

[@paultellier2147]

YES!

[@ASAP2525]

You do ride like type pros the XC pros that is.

[@cloudsmith7803]

What's even better is people buy full sus bikes and find out they don't like mtb at all. It gives me a good shot at getting a used bike for a great deal.

[@mikegilheany8828]

I've been a bike mechanic for 26 years. You are absolutely correct. A functional bike is the best bike. I fix other people's bikes, but I ride steel frames with simple parts. No hydraulic stuff to bleed, no batteries to charge, they always work. Keep bikes simple. Excellent video.

[@garethhughes5745]

Nothing wrong with a good set of V brakes so long as you can keep the rims straight, I also quite fancy downgrading some of my hydraulic brake bikes to mechanical disc. makes maintenance so much easier and practical.

[@mikegilheany8828]

@@garethhughes5745 Yeah, I've got at least 10+ bikes with Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes. Makes swapping parts from frame to frame easy and fun too.

[@garethhughes5745]

@@mikegilheany8828 thanks for the tip, i will look out for those brakes :))

[@BartAnderson_writer]

Great philosophy! I'm very happy with older bikes, but I appreciate not having to ride the cheapest bikes. When I was young, I rode hand-me-down bikes which was okay at the time. But when I was able to spend a few hundred dollars on an intermediate level bike ... what a difference! That being said, almost any bike can be a source of pleasure.

[@SeymourSunshine]

Yes. I agree with you absolutely. I ride what I call RAMbikes ... road-adapted mountain bikes. My favourite is my Diamondback Wildwood restomod with 100% Alivio components. The key is to keep it well-lubed and adjusted. KISS ... keep it sweet and simple.

[@tooltechstw]

I am 76 and the last time I rode a bike was 15 years ago. I recently got a bike and started riding again. I am starting slowly and relearning slow motion moves. Now, I enjoy the many hike & bike paths around the city. Soon, I will be out in the woods shredding...kind of!

[@davemcbeard]

I gotta admit, the worst thing about most mtb channels is how the bikes they test are top spec and incredibly expensive. It's hard to relate when the frame of the bike being reviewed is already more expensive than my entire e-bike. It's great to find a relatable channel for a change, keep up the great work 👍

[@xander1756]

Many channels are simply extensions of bike industry advertising departments...I steer clear of any channel that makes "Dream Build" videos or hilights a particular bike, including videos that show latest tech or "must have" gadgets.

[@ffwast]

Then they say "budget bike" and it's like a thousand dollars. That's not budget at all.

[@xander1756]

@@ffwast I think that's because "budget bike" is industry marketing bs for 'cheap'. And for bikes, cheap means cheap componentry. For i think most folks have a budget, thus calling a certain range of bikes 'budget bikes' is illogical, thus I suspect marketing bs.

[@soap5393]

Thanks for helping us "regular bike" people feel justified in our choice (or need) not to go into debt to have fun.

[@octaviocordoliani9081]

Preach! Just ride and have fun, that's the entire point of mountain biking.

[@AlanPina-nn5sz]

Until marketing enters to the chat...

[@MrQmason]

Biking period ....just ride and enjoy life. :)

[@Mr.Finkel]

100% agree. i've been riding the same 26" hard tail since 1999. still a lot of fun. when i first started MTB in 1997 I used to see this guy on a road bike bombin down the trails. he was better and faster than me. shows it's the rider not the gear.

[@ffwast]

Put disc brakes and a little beefier tires on it and it's just a modern gravel bike

[@MaxUrban-kt6fh]

I wouldn't even call it a gravel bike I have a 2007 Gary Fisher advance and I've hit black tech, double black jumps and everything in-between

[@dorolo]

finally some one who ride to have fun and don't ride to show bike :) respect!

[@johnc7753]

Matty is the type of dude that should spin up some mtb clinics. Get people involved, keep it basic, and has the best demeanor for helping others start or continue journey in bikes.

[@samwilcockmusic]

100%

[@gooberpea8134]

I love this philosophy. It can be applied to most things in life. Most often, simple is better, assuming a reasonable level of quality. Simple things break less. When they do break, they’re easier to fix. They tend to last longer. Simple things force you to develop your skills, rather than relying on the tech. Often, you are forced to be more creative. Typically, they are cheaper as well. Though I have been known to spend more to get something simple, but high quality. Good for you! Thanks for sharing this message.

[@erfansoltani678]

You are right I have a tourney mech and it's 16 years old it's still working so what's the need of upgrading it even to an Altus what's point?a marginal improvent in shifting I'm an expert in shifting to lower gears because of tourney's shitty😂downshifting When I rode my friend's xt mech I saw no difference

[@ReedoAce]

Wow! You make a great point - thank you!

[@sarahhagen2051]

I have two bikes. I have a Roscoe 29er and a FS carbon Canyon. My Canyon is a cross country, so not tons of travel. But, its plenty for me. I’m 61, and don’t do anything too crazy. I just have fun and try to stay healthy!

[@MTBMOR]

Keep it up. I just turned 50 and I am struggling with the aging process.

[@blyslv1]

My second bike is a steel single speed. I use it for intown riding and paved bike paths. It's probably got about the same mileage as my full suspension.

[@charlie_one_9]

This is why I subbed a long time ago man. Your humility, promotion of simplicity and having fun above all else is inspiring.

[@nomad61u2]

You are basically talking about the joy of “underbiking”. I’m with you. I have access to pretty nice mountain bikes, but I’ve been enjoying the simplest ones most lately

[@siedmy]

Underspending. If you have ever ridden a bike you would understand, that ride over is the only option.

[@sqd8r]

Underbiking, I think is more riding below your ability. I think he is more on buying what you really need, not want. Possibly it's a bit of both. Either way you save money.

[@richarddecredico6098]

@@sqd8r underbiking is using less bike than is needed for a specific task like using a hardtail with 100m front sus for downhill or using a gravel bike to ride blue mtb trails

[@MrQmason]

@@sqd8r And you can STILL have fun....... :) I LOVE the hardtails. But, I don't go on wild trails..... mostly paved and light off road. Enjoy !

[@PistonHead211]

This is 100% the best way to look at all things in life but especially an expensive hobby like this. When I was a kid the guy that got the biggest props at the jumps was the one that was doing the same tricks on the beater bike that they borrowed from a buddy. I have a beater hard tail that I’ve been riding for years that I ONLY upgrade a part if it breaks beyond repair and so far I’ve only spent maybe $100 on it in the last 10 years lol.

[@gjBackBone]

I don't even ride mountainbikes, I live in the flat Netherlands, I commute to work. I really enjoyed the video though, you're enjoyable to listen too. Stayed for the personality and energy, very comfortable. Keep it up! Greetings from the Netherlands!

[@BRichSolution]

Matty the truth has set you free! Don’t let people hate

[@monica93304]

As someone that is getting back into bikes for mental and physical fitness, I find this channel totally relatable. Thank you.

[@snat6299]

I went to full suspension due to comfort as I got older and it was way better on my over 50 joints. Rode HT for about 48yrs. Now I have more smiles after my rides:) love simple nice bikes since i was a kid.

[@brianwitter3271]

Indeed. I ran XC and raced, dirt jumped, and rode vert BMX. I'm a mess from injuries and over 50, but still love two wheels on dirt. I can afford one bike at a time. My Ripmo AF may never get pushed to the limit, but it always brings the smiles and occasionally saves my bacon when an old injury says hello at the worst time. I'll never judge a rider based on their bike, just like I don't want to be judged for not riding my bike like JKW.

[@magicunicorn6535]

I bought a used hardtail XC race-bike because it was lightweight and the right size for me. I could have bought a full suspension, but I don't need that, and certainly not the added weight. I also looked at gravel bikes, but.... meh. I like to enjoy fairly easy trails with gentler hills, and I certainly don't jump. That XC bike fills the bill perfectly. Just a couple of tweaks here and there to dial in the fit and my riding position, and I now have a jack-of-all-trades bike that goes anywhere I point it.

[@guitarlessonsnow3431]

You’re the most real mountain biker on KZbin. Keep it up!

[@kevinkirschner359]

This video hits deep. I've been riding my Marlin 6 for almost 3 years and have loved it but things gotten dull and had me think about other bikes that I see people on, like full suspension. I recently had a great ride on my Marlin which surprised me how capable it was. Glad I didn't fall into a new bike purchase. Keep posting videos, great content which has me think and critique my riding style.

[@WStar4Life]

This is exactly why I purchased a Roscoe 9 after not having a hardtail for like 5 years. Now I am back to choosing the best lines and it has made me a better rider again.

[@timbertome2443]

Roscoe 9 is legendary. I got an 8 and love it.

[@orisitsteven]

I appreciate your message man! My 7 year old son got me into mountain biking this year, and he and I have been having a blast. I've been riding an old mongoose racing bike I had lying around, and it has been totally fine to learn on. Now that I know I enjoy the sport I am researching purchasing an actual mountain bike. But, it's been really hard to make a decision with all the options and talk of needing this and that. This video has just reinforced my thoughts that I want a good hardtail, and I dont need anything too fancy.

[@schlooonginator1227]

Dude, I love your channel because you have a much more down to Earth attitude to the sport which appeals much more to newer riders. Mountain biking is awesome and it was awesome when I started back in the 90s with 26" wheeled hard tails and rigid bikes. Like you said, I like to enjoy the scenery too. Mountain biking has kinda lost the adventure aspect in favor of "bike parks", gnar etc but when I started it was really about just finding out where this trail went. It was just a trail. No cool name, no bermed corners, just a trail. Anyways, keep Em coming.

[@jspate61]

Exactly! Keep it functional and fun. It's so funny to hear you say these things because I have found myself on the same track. I'm desperately in search of a 90's Specialized Stumpjumper. Such an awesome ride. Cheers from Montreal QC😊

[@chiparooo]

I share your philosophy. Great observations. Another point is security. Almost no one will want to steal my bike. Could it happen? Yes, but it’s not worth the time or money to take it. Thanks for sharing!

[@ashley-tm1uk]

your message is spot on…we tend to get caught up in “the stuff” , and all it does is complicate “ the reality”…it’s not about the price…it’s about how the bike feels…some bikes feel cheap and lack quality that aren’t cheap at all… i bought a used walmart bike because of the size and design of the aluminum frame…yes, some of the components were of lesser quality, but still very functional until i upgraded them as desired…and it’s pretty safe to say that i’ve now invested as much as buying a less budget friendly brand, but it no longer feels like it is lacking in any way…and you might not even get that with buying a much more expensive brand…i don’t mountain bike yet, but would like to start…when i do, i’ll be riding a rigid frame with rim brakes and 1x gearing…i have a real appreciation for fine things, but keeping it simple has become my motto for most everything i do… good to see someone out there who gets it , and passes on this huge secret to a large audience! good on you brother!

[@ErikS101]

I owned a bike shop in Colorado about 30 years ago and I love this video! I fell into the mindset of keeping pace with the latest and greatest. You are so spot on with your words regarding cycling. It should be for personal enjoyment not “showing off” unless that’s your thing or are competitive. Unfortunately I started to resent cycling “snobs” so I stopped cycling for a while. Silly I know but I recently bought an e-trike and love it. Your analysis reaffirmed my thoughts on just get out and enjoy getting out! Riding around, taking in the sights. Age does make a difference but i really enjoyed your video.

[@ffwast]

Once you've bought the "latest and greatest" it doesn't make sense to do it again, because what happened to the one that was just the "latest and greatest"? It's just as good as when you bought it,and you still have it.

[@z471]

I'm with you 100%. The most beautiful thing about bikes is that you don't need anything fancy to generate the same smile and feeling. I rode full suspension for years, then got sick of all the maintenance and setup BS myself, so I've been riding rigid for the last few keeping it pure and simple. I'm ready to try some of the newer full sus bikes now though. A lot has changed since I last rode them.

[@michaellowery928]

Word! Just get out and ride! For those regular guys like most of us are that have regular jobs and regular responsibilities like families biking has to fit in and not be a potential problem that could affect the main things…family life, job life, and other responsibilities. Good stuff. Keep ‘em coming!

[@markg3305]

I love your attitude thank you... we jump into every new hobby as a family so that means we have to buy everything 3 times so finding a budget option is always the goals

[@blvckabacus]

I used to love riding since I was a kid. Fell back in love in college and have t really ride since I graduated. learned that a state park near me not even 20 mins away has awesome trails. Stumbled upon your page just checking stuff out. By far you have the most informative videos.

[@troy5140]

Matty seems like a good solid dude. We need more people like him in the world

[@goatsplitter]

Like all things, it's all about diminutive returns and bell curves. The sweet spot IMO is the middle grade, and when something breaks, replace it with higher end version if its in the budget at that time and if you feel like you still need/want to. Also, you right on the hardtail turning green into blue/black. Well said.

[@jackmehoff2363]

I went out and got the ozark explorer because of this channel. This past week i have been riding around with my kids, riding up hills just to bomb down them. You inspired me to ride with my kids. And I forgot just how fun it can be to just ride a bike down a hill. Thank you

[@stephenwaters5134]

Thank you for keeping it real. Not being part of the corporate greed consumerist system. I like bike riding, you like bike riding, we bro's.

[@forsav592]

This is First video I saw from you but it was interesting. But I only got half way through. I might come back to finish it. I had a similar start to biking. And honestly now that I have the fancy nice bike, I don't ride. Probably my favorite bike was a specialized hard tail. Stump jumper.

[@krispybois]

I love full suspension for park, but for everything else I'm a major ridged single speed enthusiast. Always a joy when you come across someone who is like minded

[@swestcod]

I ride a FS bike and I rarely mess with the suspension….like the channel….i also enjoy a good hard tail

[@synndakitt]

Most humbling moment in my life was when 3 riders, who looked like they must have been in their 70's, passed me on an uphill. Their bikes must have been 20yrs old. I mean they had no dropper post and their forks still had the rubber accordion covers on their stanchions.

[@TheArimatheus]

I like working on bikes more than actually riding them, so often times I'll just grab whatever because they "ideal bike for the ride" is in pieces.

[@jeffholmes2459]

My brother !!!!!!!

[@MTBMOR]

You have a special mindset. I am always afraid I will break something. Heck, I often do. Then again even the professionals mess things up sometimes.

[@TheArimatheus]

@MTBMOR I've been doing pretty much all my own maintenance since I started racing BMX almost 30 years ago. Then I got into DH/Dual Slalom, then XC after a bad wreck. So, my mechanical skills have grown alongside the industry. There's still some stuff I don't tinker with either because of the complexity, or I just don't want to. I can't rebuild *any* shock or fork, for instance. While I can build wheels, it frustrates me (though I true my own wheels). I don't swap tubeless tires very often because it's a mess and I don't have an air compressor in my apartment, loose pack hubs with ball bearings are a pain in the butt. Once you've collected all the specialty tools over time it makes everything a lot easier, like having a cup press rather than the "wood block and hammer method" as one example. And now everyone is in the absolute golden age of maintenance with tons of KZbin videos for almost every year of every component, etc. I basically learned from age 11 on by reverse engineering. They're pretty simple machines, though, at the end of the day.

[@JohnChristopher-k7u]

I’ve been riding bikes all of my life and I’m a 60 year old man. My first ever full suss was my 2022 Trek Rail 5 custom. Up until then, it’s been a hardtail all day long (always with front suspension forks). Today I have two bikes, both peddle assisted e-bikes. My first e-bike was the Giant Fathom E+3 29er hardtail, which is now my all round commuter and touring bike. Having suffered from sciatica for the last four years riding a fully rigid bike simply wasn’t an option, so I thank God everyday for the comfort my Rock Shox Judy provides when I’m dodging potholes etc. The sad fact is there is a lot of elitism in cycling which has really spoiled an otherwise great sport, so it’s really nice to hear somebody else expressing the same view When you jump on your bike for a session, remember, it’s not a fashion show and leave your bad attitude at home, where it belongs.

[@jpg0927]

I just hung up my 90s steel hybrid. You prompted me to remember how much fun I had with that 40 lb beast on fire roads & impromptu stunt parks. Now I'll have to get it down & find some space for it on the floor.

[@Klunker1]

You have a great attitude on the simple fun of riding. I ride a fully rigid hardtail but embarrassed to say I spent too much.

[@gregorythornton4930]

This is why I love your channel man! You're always humble and you made a great point with this one... Just go ride and have fun, don't get caught up in the bike hype. As some someone who has also came full circle, I'm back on a simple hardtail and loving it! Rock on Bro!

[@michaelbyers8931]

I am happy to hear your message. This is what I believe too! I pray for your continued success.

[@DavidSnow-s2r]

Thanks Matt for sharing this video with us. I ride 90’s mountain bikes with some upgrades done to them. I’m old school Cannondale, Trek, Proflex kinda guy. I don’t look down on people who are starting out biking I show them you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have fun on a bike. Keep up the great work and stay safe out there.

[@smokeycanuck8058]

Proflex??? Whoa that's a blast from the past. I started rinding in the late 80s and haven't heard that name for a long time. Remember Slingshot bikes? Keep the rubber side down friend 👍

[@DavidSnow-s2r]

@@smokeycanuck8058 thanks you do the same.

[@Daniel-yf9iy]

Good points. Suspension adds yet another layer of service needs and $$ and if you don’t NEED it don’t waste your $$

[@zLcss]

Fully agree ! Also that’s the reason why I personally find 1x10 gravel bikes so interesting. It’s the highest efficiency in terms of power to speed on most terrains while simultaneously being the most durable as well without suspension and other complicated components that could fail you

[@ffwast]

Personally I just don't see the appeal of 1x drivetrains. Maybe I just haven't tried a good one or maybe it's just being used to 3x growing up, but my cheapo gravel bike came with a 2x and I'm much happier with that than the 1x I've tried.

[@Bored-G]

I can relate bro, it's called aging in biking .😂We are going through a process called realization.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

I don't talk down cheap bikes but I'm very vocal about manufacturers that will sell you something labeled as a "Mountain bike" that will fall apart after a year of riding green trails. Happily they're getting scarce 😅

[@TheBikeChannelwithMongooseJake]

Honestly that's completely changed in the last few years. The newer Schwinns, Mongoose, and Ozark Trail models are all genuine mountain bikes that will last will last completely fine with normal care, and a few choice parts upgrades here and there. And, that's an awesome thing. Better bikes at better prices is good for all.

[@DAZLIN6]

Love this attitude, totally makes sense.

[@growsustainflourish8911]

I really appreciate your perspective on this. I’ve done 15 years of riding on a basic specialized hard tail with all the original parts on it and except for a few trails and obstacles at a bike park I’ve never felt like I’ve been held back because of it. I ride for the challenge of the obstacles and the natural scenery on the trails. I’m thinking of buying a new bike now and although some of the innovations in the last 15 years like 1x12 drive trains are more reliable and simple other aspects require more care and maintenance and it’s easy to allow that to start to take away from the time on trail and just enjoying riding.

[@BrownPeterAnthony]

You speak the truth, enjoyment comes from within.

[@commontreads273]

I bought a Trek Marlin 5 Gen 3 and it’s hands down the best bike that I have ever ridden. I’m just getting into the sport and having a blast. I’ll just upgrade parts as I get better. Took it to bentonville and was keeping up on blues to people that had bikes 3 times the cost of mine. It’s not the bike, it’s the rider.

[@newoldsteel]

AMEN TO EVERYTHING! That's what I'm about too, only more on the road bike side, but now combining simplicity of "regular" steel road bikes and now the versatility of gravel riding, it's like you enjoy riding even more when you are not concerned with scratching/messing up an expensive bike or "stuck" with having to take bike lanes/trails, I just like going everywhere and being able to enjoy every moment and not just select moments during the ride!

[@pyfreelancer5527]

Your video encouraged me to buy a “ regular bike “ Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@copperpiiiipe]

The bike that puts the biggest smile my face is a €90 single speed bike that picked up on marketplace for running errands 😀

[@connors1692]

I got a diamondback motown hard tail on sale for around $700 and I LOVE IT. While I don’t have any jump parks around me, it has handled every single technical trail like an absolute champ, and that’s what I enjoy riding the most. I started on a $300 XC bike that couldn’t handle that terrain quite as well, but still got the job done most of the time. Cheaper bikes is where it’s at if you ask me.

[@nickcutler7759]

Hey Matty, i’ve been riding Mountain Bikes since the beginning and I hate how expensive and complicated the bikes are now. I definitely love a fancy bike on say a Mountain Bike Holiday where I usually hire but every day riding at home I want something I can afford, and is more simple. I want to see more people riding not less so more affordable bikes is definitely the way to go 👍

[@dalejuhl8591]

What a splendid message - It's about 2 things 1. Satisfaction 2. Preference Which ever bike gives a person these 2 things nothing more is needed 😊

[@Sonics62]

Awesome video Matty.

[@roberthughes8428]

Great vlog as long as you feel comfortable on your bike and are enjoying riding trails on it. It is all about enjoyment and not how much money a bike cost. Imagine coming off a high end bike!!! That would make me cry.

[@DroppingIn]

Preach.... as i get older my mindset is more and more like yours. I get so much out of my hardtail and reach for it more than i reach for my full sus. Love your videos brutha

[@WanderingWheeliesMTB]

Great video! Subbed! I am working on a similar concept video about "Do you need a top of the line bike to be a competitive racer" or something like that. While my bike is not "budget" it is a 2017 full suspension and I can still throw down with people on brand new bikes. Like you said, 95% of riders are not even utilizing their bikes full potential. I started biking 12 years ago on a fully rigid GT Timberline! It got me to the trails, I had fun, and every root, rock, drop was a BIG obstacle. I really like your approach on just grabbing the bike and going! I went with a coil fork for this reason so I can set it up how I like it and then forget about it for a year! I really learned some editing/video creation techniques from your video so thanks for that! Good work.

[@GreatBeardofWisdom]

Huh, you know what? I'm looking to get into mountain biking, and the mentality you described at the start of the video is the mentality I'm currently in, but you've really given me food for thought. I've been eyeing up numerous expensive bikes, but I have one already that I can upgrade a bit instead. This was very informative. Thank you!

[@erichutchison6163]

Have fun. Such a great philosophy for life.

[@xcx8646]

You speak the truth - on all topics. Safe riding 👍

[@MrRoarkeFI]

Matty, I’m glad you did this video. I’m in 100% agreement with you. I had the exact same dilemma in recent years. Being in my 50’s now, I just want to ride my bike and enjoy a trail not wanting to fidget with my bike and worry about a million things. That’s why I’m pretty content with my 2020 Roscoe 8. I have a hybrid for road use as well.

[@tomatostakefabrik9429]

We have a MTB festival in the ADK Mountains which is a totally chill trail rides. The vibe is ride a bike. They don't care what you have! Super fun

[@SeymourSunshine]

Yes. Thank you. I find this video so affirming. You and I think exactly the same way.

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

I’m the same way. I didn’t start MTBing until 53. I ride green/blue trails on a hard tail. I really like enjoying the scenery, basic trails, keeping speeds slower, not getting injured, working more on technique than speed etc….. Nothing but fun. I ride a Trek Roscoe 6. More than enough bike for me.

I randomly clicked on this video and then I noticed you are using my hometown view of the mountains :) Top pick! :)

[@jonk967]

Great points, I think the simpler bike/tech add a degree of fun that money cannot always buy! I love a good hardtail!!

[@erichutchison6163]

Nice. Love it. Im on a marlin 6 2nd gen right now. Before that i still rode the hell out of my gary fischer that i brought in 99 when i worked at Trek.

[@seelark]

I so appreciate your perspective on riding bikes. I’m the kind of person who can too easily think the best stuff will automatically be the best experience. It’s weird, but you have given me permission to be satisfied with simple enjoyment of the riding experience!

[@benp7555]

Best video and statement I have seen in a long time! Keep going.

[@barrybecker3706]

I am so glad I found you and your channel, Matty!! Thank you so much for everything you give us!

[@S8NSAYS]

I love your attitude! Just find joy in riding whatever you have! Or just joy in whatever you have in general!

[@lettersquash]

Love this philosophy! I just have one bike I got about a year ago and I'm loving it - my Marin Eldridge Grade, a rigid steel framed bike from 1985. Also, I got it from a local charity that takes donated older bikes, fixes them up and sells them on for very reasonable prices, giving their profits to good causes. If you find something like that near you, they'll have a lot of stuff that would otherwise be going to the dump and could be just this sort of old skool genius! Mine cost £65 GBP. I could pay more for a couple of new tyres. I commute on it. I go wild camping on it. I ride just for the enjoyment, and I hardly have to adjust anything ever. Consumers have been sold more and more nonsense upgrades for decades.

[@jamiephillips3725]

All great points! I recently upgraded from a rockhopper to a stumpjumper t-type and realized I have just as much fun on my hardtail as I do on my full suspension, and like you said, even greens can be a thrill on a hardtail. Nothing I can do about it now, but I have learned that I have all the bikes I need at this point. No need for anymore upgrades

[@MoriTouge]

Simply true mountain biking wisdom.❤

[@sk360flip]

Agreed. The guys at the trek store told me there is no way I could ride my Roscoe 6 at the bike park. It’s the nicest bike I’ve ever had. I upgraded from a 30 year old mongoose switchback. I hit jumps, drops, and some techy blues with no issues.

[@eXaviar]

They say that only to make sure you can not make them responsible, if you would crash on it in a bikepark, because they told you, you could 😅

[@MM-yy9ib]

I ride my Gen2 M6 everywhere. I upgraded the tires, pedals, seat, grips, and to a RockShox Recon. I'm extremely happy with this bike and I've been riding for years. I'm not hating on anyone with a 5k full squish either. I plan on getting a. Siskiu T here soon as my 58 year old back and knees take a beating

[@cliffhutch7789]

I ride my roscoe 6 at the bike park no problem though at 62 I try to keep my tires on the ground.

[@eXaviar]

@@sk360flip you can ride your Roscoe at a bikepark, if you ride the tamer stuff. It is made for XC. So no risk if you stay on the ground. Read the ASTM rating for your bike. It tells you, how hard it can be ridden 🤙🏾

[@bremingtonMTB]

Love the direction you're heading in on your journey Matty. A budget bike is not a bad term but the way. There is a whole budget bike subculture developing now. It is a clear rejection of the gatekeepers in the cycling and mountain biking community. I'd love to see you build a budget bike up. Like the Ozark Trail Ridge. Get you out of your comfort zone and start tinkering. It's a great way to learn the mechanics and wrenching on your own equipment.

[@sindrejensen1411]

When i get my next paycheck august 30, i most likley will go to the store and buy a Merida Big Nine 400 green version, along with a helmet and bike carrier for the car. I used to have a merida like it back 15-18years ago, and havent had a bike in over 10years, i look forward to start riding around where i live and in the mountain, memorising about my childhood, finding a good state of mind in this ever worsening world

[@MBB31]

MTB biking looks so fun. I have never gone on a MTB ride. This channel definitely makes me want to try! ❤

[@Mtn_Mig]

So glad you are talking about how you don't need a new hyper-priced bike to have a fabulous day riding. I ride an early 2000s KHS full suspension bike that I absolutely love. I'm asked on occasion why I don't replace it. My KHS with it's 26" wheels and front derailer is still the nicest bike I have ever riden. It's light, nimble, and with super feel on the single track. I'm in my mid 50s and I still pass most riders on the trails. I figure this will be the bike I will ride for the rest of my life and I'm just fine with it.

[@lastpme]

The funny thing is looking at your fleet you have expensive bikes 🤣. My mini fleet are entry level local bike shop bikes, but at 53 my bikes work for me. Plus, having two kids in college, it will be a while before consider upgrading my fleet, but my mountain, gravel, and road bikes allows me to have options where I decide to ride to stay in shape. Another great video 👍🏿

[@jeffpittman8725]

Truth must be spoken. I can enjoy so many different things on my bike. Simplicity has lasted me a very long time. Keep doing what you're doing!

[@HauntingHistoryStories]

Cheers for the video and you're absolutely right.

[@SalsaAmigoMG]

Another spot on video… While I do own and appreciate super high end bikes & parts, on a daily basis, I’m often riding one of my ‘regular’ bikes. My rigid steel singlespeed is the bike I’ve been riding most lately.

[@stephankoehler800]

This video is so good. You articulate my thoughts precisely (better than I've ever done). I ride a hardtail and it gives me the thrills I'm after, more easily and more often. From time to time I'm hitting bigger drops and wish I had some cushion on the back wheel but mostly the HT is more than enough and keeps my skills sharp and my vibes high.

[@adamolig3865]

Love this, man. Best bike video I've seen all year. Just get out and ride, with whatever you've got...

[@MarcAmesse]

My thoughts exactly. Great channel. I love all bikes but my favorite is my hardtail for all the same reasons. Simple, practical, and low maintenance. Always ready to ride. I love trail and enduro riding. I enjoy the focus of picking lines, staying light, and working on finesse. To each his own for sure. All styles of bikes are awesome. Thanks for the video.

[@ToriGirlytar]

Thank you for this video! I’m getting my first bike this upcoming weekend. I just want to enjoy the scenery and ride nice trails too! ❤🚵‍♀️

[@NullNixian]

As a tech at a Trek store… I can’t agree with you more man! Full rigid FTW!

[@markhay1664]

I’ve found going back to basics. I don’t have to compete If my friends are riding fast down the trail or doing the jumps, I don’t need too. I’m riding full ridged there riding full sus ebike. I’m Riding my own ride having fun 😎

[@NoDoSwLa]

Amen! I'm rocking my hardtail for years and having a blast everyhwere. Yes, i'm aware of the pro's and con's, but it's ok for my skilset and my demands

[@JCbeatProductions]

As a middle aged dude that just got my 1st bike im enjoying your channel. I'm in AR too btw

[@YashikOutdoor]

This video made me happy, I ride just a regular bike no suspension no flashy parts, I'm happy it works and instead of hightech gadgets I rather focus on enjoying ride and scenery i'm in. Dificulty trails are not for me like terrain more plain so I don't have to push it into hill because moving is struggle but as long as i get excercise and have a great time outside i'm happy so it was pleasure to see video showing that enjoyment comes from riding and is not limited to expensive bikes.. so thank you

[@tysonm2525]

I’ve done the same thing, I owned a nice full suspension bike, then went back to a hardtail with some nice upgrades.