TOP 5 BEST BUDGET HARDTAIL MOUNTAIN BIKES IN 2023 / 2022

[@TopToBottomMTB]

💥 Heads UP!! 💥 Massive SALE on NOW!👇🏻 bikesonline-usa.sjv.io/eKJVDX If you’re in the market for a new bike, NOW is the time!

[@justinvzu01]

I think the biggest issue with budget MTBs is that they want to load them with features, instead of making a really nice frame that allows for all kinds of upgrades.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

I found out the hard way buying my very first MTB a Marin bobcat Trail 5

[@worgle123]

Go check out the Marlin 7. Wonderful frame on there. Ima go with that one.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@worgle123 I just bought a trek rosco 7 frame I’m building a bike is what I decided

[@Andy_T79]

​@@waldowsxxghostxx8577I thought about doing that but it makes zero sense when a frameset is £800, but a full Roscoe 7 is only £1100... no way you could build the equivalent for £300 more, try double or triple that for the same parts! I bought the bike swapped out some parts and kept others as spares for when something breaks or can swap out when a part needs servicing or even if I want to sell the bike later I can keep my trick bits, Fox float, Sram GX, Hope tech 4's etc and then put back on the old unused parts; so the bike looks and rides like new and get a better deal on the sale 🤷‍♂️

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@Andy_T79 thing is I plan on porting all my parts toa full sus frame haven't decided maybe between ibis Ripley Al or trek top fuel Al or the longer travel fuel ex in the meantime I'm going to commit to build a custom Rosco 7

[@mattiaspettersson788]

My 64-year-old ”girlfriend” owns a San Quentin 2 and it’s a superb bike for her. She’s new to trailriding and this rig has really boosted her confidence when descending pretty steep and gnarly passages. Much gnarlier than she ever thought she would dare descending. I’m very impressed.

[@blnunya6689]

"Girlfriend"....I know I'm late to the party but for some reason that made me laugh. The quotation marks just leave me guessing, lol.

[@Cici1791]

I think he's just trying to emphasize that at 64 years, she's not really a "girl" anymore.@@blnunya6689

[@hectorfox9710]

@@blnunya6689😅👏

[@davidedwards3161]

Thanks to your video, I bought an open box Xrada 7 for 749 and I love it so much! Thanks!!

[@richr7516]

I recently picked up the San Quinten 2. Yes, the SQ is absolutely fantastic on the rough, tight and twisty stuff we have and climbs great. In a few weeks we are heading to Jakes for Bike Fest and going to hit all the black and see what she does. This bike is very confidence inspiring.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Awesome! Thx for sharing!

[@zebfail480]

I have the cheaper SQ 1 and I have to say the price to performance for both is insane

[@jermellyons195]

ABOSULETLY OUTSTANDING VIDEO. From the pros and cons. To the organization of the video from 5 to 1. You hit the topic right on the head. I LOVE how you are very beginner friendly, explaining what the angle does for a rider. I've learned so much. Definitely got me to subscribe man. Big props.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers! Thanks for the kind words and welcome aboard!🤘🏻

[@TheApeWonder]

Totally agree. Great!

[@kalmi_riding]

I just bought a Cube Aim Ex for like 600 euros. Alu frame, 29inch wheels, 160/160 hydraulic brakes, 1x10 deore drivetrain with 11-46 cassette. The only thing what was annoying is the suntour coil fork so I replaced it with a Manitou Markhor for another 250 euros. Now that is excellent and it's travel can be varied between 80-120mm. Using 120, the headtube angle becomes a bit slacker. Around 67.5... I like it ^^

[@peterdisbury6346]

As an older rider, those crashes really hurt now so for me, personally, I am taking the tame approach to riding and XC is my go to choice for riding now. For the kids, go hit those 100ft + gaps, 40ft drops, pull those 3 mile wheelies etc….keep it going. Nice choice of bikes but I am surprised you did not look at the Canyon bikes.

[@CasaAllacampanile]

My boy got the teal/pink San Quentin last year and it’s amazing. The goal was a bike he could upgrade, and he’s gone all out on that over the last year and a half. The only original parts are the cranks, and wheels. I’m talking one up carbon bars, burgtec stem and spacers, xt brakes, 11 speed xt cassette, deore deraileur, slx shifter. Then a PNW loam dropper lever with matching grips. Cushcore inside maxxis minions and a rockshox recon fork. In hindsight the San Quentin 2 would have been better mainly because of the rear boost through axle, restricts the ability to upgrade wheels.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Great info and insight for people who are looking to upgrade part by part… thank you so much for sharing! 💪🏻

[@Myleswithani]

ive done the same thing with my san quentin. only original parts now is the stem and brake discs. you can actually buy an axle insert for more modern wheels. i bought a 12x142mm axle adapter for my rear wheel and im running a 12mm axle rear wheel on my 9mm QR frame. it feels like it stiffens up the rear end a bit too! found it on ebay.

[@gastonlaberge2119]

I had a Baldock Aluminum hard ass frame that was given me. I bought a Williams carbon stem and a Domino teflon saddle, a JackieoLantan derailer front and back with a 11 speed tapeless cassette, Amoon hubs on Hewlet AM-4R rims with Beaumont electrically charged, zero drag spokes and Dunlop radial ply sand tires. The crank set I chose was a Teknikal aluminum AR46Yhg with negative crank boost. Finally the cockpit was aerodynamically negative with Buffalo shifters and Doe skin hand grips. Later I installed a set of green Klaptrap disc brakes with a hydraulic overgrab system. I also bought Campibillo shoes, shorts, snazzy t shirt and racing vest, a Byrne Headman helmet, and Thornton and Eve leather like riding gloves. I just realized I now need the rack on the back of my car cos I don't live anywhere near a mountain trail.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

@@gastonlaberge2119 wow… a man who loves his custom builds!! Welcome to the crew! 🤘🏻

[@ItsMeHammie]

I managed to snag a 2022 Canyon Stoic for $1000 from a chick who ordered the wrong size and didn't want to go through the hassle of shipping it back. She never even took it on a trail. For just a bit more than your budget options it's a sick bike with great components and geo.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Nice score homie! Direct to consumer brands are the best! So much bang for buck!🤘🏻

[@berendei_1662]

And what model? Stoic 2?

[@ReidAllenWilliamson]

Stoic 2 seems like the best lower high budget hard tail . Happy?

[@ItsMeHammie]

@@ReidAllenWilliamson very happy. Very solid bike and confidence inspiring

[@fighterdow]

@@TopToBottomMTBwhat do you think about this canyon stoic 2 bike, compared to the polygon xtrada 7 and your top 1 on this video?

[@ahoyt653]

I went with the Giant Talon 1 27.5, love the air fork. Drivetrain has the perfect ratio for my area and riding style.

[@extremegamerrrr5833]

I just order the talon 3

[@colbyntx8578]

I got the 22’ Xtrada 7 in XL (I’m 6’2” barefooted) in March and have put many miles on her. From the hills of Austin to the Pineywoods of East Texas all the way up to Slaughter Pen in Bentonville. It is an amazing hardtail. I did upgrade the bars, grips, pedals, dropper post & went tubeless Maxxis. It’s a great bike and has gone down some pretty knarley blacks. I’m 51 years old and it’s all the bike I need.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Noice!👌🏻Thanks Colby!

[@mrlaw711]

Nice review. Thanks. I had Trek's fpr years, but older now, and after knee surgery..getting back into it. These are all I need.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@andrewpipitone1572]

Thankyou I watched alot of bike videos for my son. You covered the best points needed to chose a bike.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers!👊🏻

[@GrahamDixonUK]

Brilliant list and may I say, excellent presentation and editing. I just got the Polygon Xtrada 7 last September. I prefer the head turning colour scheme to this year's version. In addition to the incredible value for money, Polygon's welding is slick. New sub from me.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

BOOM!! Thanks for sharing your experience with the group Graham! And thanks for the support! Glad to have you in the audience!🤘🏻

[@Cesar-cm4if]

Agreed! Something else to keep in mind while riding mtbs are helmets, most people wear cpsc helmets, when they should be wearing nta helmets like xnito or bern hudson, or even full face helmets

[@matrixracing8268]

There are many great options here besides the Line, the Diamondback Line has outdated geometry, and it does not have a tapered headtube, and at its price of $900 it should come with better parts than an Acera drivetrain and a square taper crankset.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Agreed, not all perfect but at this price point , you only start seeing the trickle down effect from the higher end bikes.

[@garyg7145]

Walmart Schwinn's have tapered head tubes now. My 2018 Breezer Squall doesn't have a tapered tube and has been my #1 roadblock to getting a better ride.

[@njshift]

The Line’s geometry is pretty comparable to all the bikes in this lineup. I agree the cheap crankset/bb, and basic drivetrain could be better for the price.

[@matrixracing8268]

@@njshift The geo is not really comparable at all

[@njshift]

@@matrixracing8268 multiple bikes on this list have a 67-68° head angles and 73-75° seat tube. The Lines 430 chainstay is actually one of the shortest on this list. Outdated no, average yes.

[@joshuaanothereraseddad]

Great video sir. I think what most people fail to remember is that when you purchase a bike you are purchasing it to ride for 2-5 years. Take the $1000 and divide it in two and it's basically $500/year. Now say you spend $3000. Chances are that rig should last you easily 5 years. Minus consumables like grips, tires, etc. That makes a $3K bike only $600 per year. That's not bad to be able to go out and shred. Additionally, a true "budget-minded" rider should know how to wrench on their equipment. That is by far where riders save their fiat. Cheers.

[@silhofn3]

Bought Marin Bobcat Trail 4 2022. Amazing bike and amazing video from you. Thank you!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Awesome you’re gonna have a blast on that bike!!

[@TheApeWonder]

You earned my sub for such a informative and straight to the point and recommendations - easy digestible for a beginner, looking down the road (no pun) for thinking if doing a purchase. Great summaries.

[@mikiyosangyo1627]

Just got two Marin Bobcats 4, for me and my son. A lot of fun riding together.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

That’s the best!! My boys are 5 and starting to come with me to ride the blue trails near our place… so cool to see them progress…🤘🏻

[@none175]

Sick Video! I started off on a GT Aggressor, riding a Trek Roscoe 8 now! ngl after I converted my GT to a nx 1x12 with MT200s; I loved it! Mad respect for GT! almost got a Zaskar hardtail

[@jsrocker248]

Around last year, bought a used 2019 Marin Nail Trail 6 fully stock except grips, pedals, and saddle. Today, having own it for over a year now, have about almost completely upgraded it to what I consider the same tech you would expect on this type of price range (retail $1299) but with the added benefit of better components to go along with it. So here goes - Maxxis Tires 2.5 29er - - DHF Front - - Aggressor Rear - Selle Royal Vivo (had previously on another bike) - NX Eagle Cassette - SRAM 11-speed chain (although could've gone cheaper buying online) - NX Eagle Crankset (Derailleur was already NX and wanted to match with so removed stock crankset) - - SRAM Crankset boots - SRAM Dub BB - Used Fox 36 Kashima 170mm that I converted to a 140mm with: - - SLIK graphic upgrade since originals were already coming off - Cane Creek 110 Crown - Bontrager Line Elite Pedals - Fox Transfer Performance 170mm dropper (only got it since Jenson had it on sale and was exact size for my bike so why not) - Raceface Turbine R 1x Remote - Marin OE Grommet (had only sealed grommets on the frame) - Marin OE Chainstay Protector - Was already running tubeless but since previous owner neglected it, took me about 3 weeks to get the tires off with damaging the rim and was all gunked up, took another day or so to clean it all off, squeaky clean - - Bought new 'rim' tape and sealant (Orange sealant is amazing) And just some accessories here and there plus general and specialty tools as well. All in all, I price around another 1k - 1.2k more with the added upgrades but to be honest, would do it all over again since this was a really great experience learning everything there is to know about my bike as well as bikes in general. Sure haven't touched upon on some other aspects like whats on full sus bikes but when the time comes that I buy a full sus, feel its best when doing the job first hand.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Wow! Thanks for sharing Memes! Nothing like picking all the parts your self and getting your hands dirty!💪🏻 My kind of people! Cheers🍻

[@kdvilla1148]

plus 1 vote for the Kona Lavadome (Fire Mountain if you want a 27.5). with regards to durability. I'm very new to mtb (~6 months) and am an older/bigger person. I was on a trail out of my comfort zone, going faster than I should have been on a stretch of downhill (up to this point I was doing really well) and panicked. grabbed a fist full of brake and full superman otb. The bike is still beautiful, nothing bent/broken/punctured or otherwise out of commission. I also have Fidloc accessories that remained attached as well. I had some gnarly bruises/scrapes and was very marbley for a bit though.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks for sharing and support!🤘🏻

[@ghost-rider]

I purchased the Lava dome as well. Excellent bike, very happy with its geometry and performance. Glad it made the list.

[@theLongPigChef]

You can't go wrong with a Kona for durability

[@EarthSurferUSA]

Slacker head tube angle is most likely come into vogue because forks are using more travel. Put a zip tie on your fork leg so you can measure the travel you are actually using on your trails. If your not using it all, a less travel fork and steeper head angle will turn better.

[@A13tech]

I bought Kross Level 5.0 (2022), retail is below 1k and I have to admit that it rides beautifully. Deore 10-51, 29" and air XCR with lockout on handlebar. For me it was nobrainer.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Man there are soooo many bike brands out there! I’ll check them out! Thanks for sharing!👌🏻

[@fairlyfunctional2236]

great video ,bro. i've been looking at the xtrada 7 and the san quentin for a while now. the xtrada has a boost frame,whereas the marin is quick release unless you upgrade to the san quentin 2 for $1500. the quality of the 2 brands is the same,since polygon makes marin's frames in their factory. the winner for me is the polygon because i live in florida and don't need the super slack head angle and it has the boost frame which opens up more upgrading possibilities.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks! 100% right and it’s nice to see someone that knows what they want/need. If you’re gonna order one, feel free to use the link in the description. It makes the channel a little commission and doesn’t cost you any extra. Thanks in advance!🤘🏻

[@danihikes24]

What an amazing videol! Thanks for all the info.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers! Thanks for watching Dani!

[@cole9863]

I have a 2017 diamondback line and I bought it used about 4 years ago and it's still going strong!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Nice! 💪🏻

[@F1ow3rzzk]

What’s your opinion on diamondback in 2023 , apparently they’re not good according to the haters , but I was wanting a syncr

[@Moondoggy1941]

I still have my Rockhopper that I purchased in 84, I remember the owner at the bike store and he stated that he hated these mountain bikes and will never sell them again, 6 months later BOOM.

[@butuguegarao]

Awesome upload! Got the Talon 3. The frame is great! Upgrading the drivetrain this week to up my riding experience. Next year, I'll try switching to air fork.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sick! Thx🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@karljaccard6210]

I have a full suspension already but i still decided to watch dis lol

[@vijelieable]

I got a San Quentin 1 (2022 edition) this Christmas for a discounted price of 890 eur witch I consider a decent price for the parts involved but barely so.. beside the shifter and its lever (witch has a clutch and works very well for the price) everything else can and should be upgraded at some point including tyres (very thin sidewalls - no way you can go tubeless with these), bottom bracket and crankset (it's a tapered square witch has a limited life span), brakes (i'm still bedding them in and might get better in time but for now braking power is pretty limited), fork (i was pretty happy with a spring coil Rockshox Judy but this one sags a lot and has limited spring pretension range). So there are lot of things you can improve but the funny fact is that you don't really have to.. everything works decent and you only need a dropping post in order to have a proper offroad rig. So yes it's a nice bike but I wouldn't pay more than I did for it, and it's true that it's strong point surely is the geometry.

[@corgibuttz2550]

Well it sure feels good to see my purchase validated! I just got into mountain biking last spring, and I went w/ the San Quinten 1. In the Miami Vice colors of course. ;) It's been a great bike so far!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Yeah buddy!! Great bike to start the sport with! And might I say, you have great taste!🤘🏻

[@ReidAllenWilliamson]

Fork okay with the San Quentin 1? Hear mixed reviews

[@corgibuttz2550]

@@ReidAllenWilliamson Well I only got into mountain biking last spring, and before that I was riding a cannondale SuperV 2000 from 1994, so I'm probably not the guy to ask because I haven't gotten to try any other ones then those two. Seems fine to me, but I hear people comment stuff like "the 1st thing I would add after the dropper post is a better front fork". I'm sure it wouldn't be enough for a real seasoned vet, but for a noob like me who doesn't know any difference... I'd say it's great! haha

[@ReidAllenWilliamson]

@@corgibuttz2550 thanks! Yea it's all relative. I'd rather be biking that watching KZbin still saving up :-/

[@christopherhauser1376]

I appreciate your pro guidance man, ordered a Lava Dome from Kona today! Loved your criteria, way to nail it for your viewers and subbers.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sick! Thanks for the kind words! Happy you found yourself a great bike you’re stoked on riding.🤘🏻 Now get out there and shred!

[@jurisx85]

Great video. Marin really has the budget mtber’s back.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

For sure bro! Nice to see for a change.

[@pat_makes_stuff]

I love how you outlined the criteria. Great video!

[@jasonrouse6912]

Voodoo Bizango pro 2022 is an excellent bang for your buck bike. And as a first bike it's well worth it. You can't really go wrong. Better then the Trek for the same price.

[@jasonrouse6912]

If you can find one? I have the Voodoo Bizango Pro 2022. But I think I'm the only one? When I bought it the salesman said I think it's the only one in the whole company? There's never stock of it online and says back in stock in January 2023. It's almost February 2023 and still no stock. But if you ever do get your hands on one? It's a good bike to start off with and that's someone who used to ride Kona for years. And wanted something new and upgradable. I've had and still got a voodoo Bizango 2015 probably the best Bizango made even the £750 bizango 2022 isn't a match compared to the 2015. Yeah it's showing it's age but spec wise it's actually very good. But the Bizango Pro is a better bike it feels more stable and has some better components for the price of £950 is a good buy and I feel it'll last just as long as my 2015 version. It's got a few things that I didn't like much like the tyres (They definitely need changing especially the rear no grip once you hit a patch of mud) get something beefier for the rear. Front tyre not so bad but again look for a beefier tyre too. Grips change them they're a bit rubbish okay but if you get the chance change them. Pedals just change them no grip if a snowflake even touches them. Your feet will go flying and end up with shin rash. I swapped out my handlebars. Stem and seat. Not because they weren't any good just personal preference. The seat is actually very nice so I kept it for spare or another build one day. Get a dropper post it has routing for this on the seat post tube on the frame. If not a dropper post get a Suntour suspension seatpost and change the quick release clamp. But even as stock it's a good bike for your money. A few simple upgrades and you'll have a confident machine. Good for cross country and a bit of light to medium downhill and an excellent bike for flats and roads. But definitely change the pedals and tyres to suit your needs.

[@juansipin7337]

How can I get the voodoo bizango?

[@jasonrouse6912]

@@juansipin7337 you could try Voodoo's website. They may have them in stock or find your nearest voodoo cycles dealer. The basic Voodoo Bizango is good but the Pro is a better because it's got better components like through axle bolts instead of quick release for the wheels. Rock Shox suspension forks instead of the Suntour forks. And a few other differences. But I would swap out of rear tyre if you're going to ride it off road or downhill. The front tyre is grippy enough for off road. But if you can go with a deeper tread pattern on both. I swapped out my handlebars. Stem and pedals for some Nukeproof parts. (The pedals that came with the bike are not good when muddy or in the rain. Get some with pins or look at DMR V8 or V12. You can't go wrong with them and they'll last without any major maintenance)

[@jeephunter]

@@juansipin7337 Don't order from their website. I paid for one on 8/4/22 and haven't received it as of 5/17/23. Their customer service is slow to respond and never helpful. A bike you can actually ride is better than a ghost bike that never shows up.

[@JuanValeraM]

Thanks for existing bro!!! Great video!!!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Lol! Thx for being you Juan! Cheers!

[@brittanygeorge3007]

Super helpful video! Thanks for breaking it all down so well. Now to shopping!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

☺️Thanks!! Let me know which one you get!!

[@largol33t1]

One thing a bike messenger warned newbies about: NEVER sacrifice brake grip. The ones with the two rubber pads are called cantilever brakes. If you want reliable braking rain or shine, snow or hail, it's safer to go with automotive style disc brakes. True, they cost more but the price is worth it.

[@antkodziej7318]

U should check out dartmoor. They have nice hardtails. Great vid!!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks! I had a Dartmoor 26 player dirt jumper last year… loved it!

[@IceeyReaper]

As a Roscoe 6 owner I said “represent” right after you said just by a roscoe without even noticing it Great video man you’re gonna blow up soon

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks! Glad to have you in the audience!!!🤘🏻

[@adventurebross123]

brooooooooooooooo love you so much i dont have a lot of money and this is the most helpfull video i have ever seen

[@TopToBottomMTB]

That’s awesome! Glad you liked it! 🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@midnight_gamer2788]

bro put up my bike . Vitus nucleus 29 VRS! great bike ive had for about a month 120 mm air forks and clarks hydros. I lover it

[@AlfredoFrancisco-dm4pk]

Yuo totally right I build hardtail by myself caneon stowed, I put the best parts downhill fork,,,, it's very strong and stable I ride everywhere, ❤❤💪💯💯💯👌👌

[@jasondundom1390]

Glad to see the Vitus on here.. ok, i built an EBike out of my Trek4300 4Sieries capable of 40mph on flat street and 25-30 on smooth straight trails.. But it weighs in at 55lb! 10 years old now and upgraded as far as the frame will allow.. i'm still on 26" quick release wheels 😕One of my options is the " VITUS SENTIER 29 VRX MTB ".. ya i will sped a bit over 2k, if my 52v batt will fit within the frame. It will be a great step up with my Bafang 750w mid drive Motor.. ALL that said what do you think of this bike?? Ya think it can handle my abuse ?? For street and very mild fast trails only! No jumps or down hilling !! oh ya my Ebike kit weighs about 19lb and im 200lb..

[@TheJewfroPower]

Thank you for the detailed vid! Getting back into mountain biking lately after not having ridden a bike for a very long time. Been trying to find the right MTB and heard about the San Quentin from Matt Jones' channel. Liked what I saw but needed a little more convincing. Literally next thing I do after I post this comment is go buy one. Thanks for the clear, concise and fun vid! Got yourself a new subscriber over here :)

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sisk! Thanks for the kind words! Happy to have you in the audience! Cheers!🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@joshualanderss4201]

Finally a real list thank you

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers!🍻

[@simonm1447]

I chose a 2018 Scott Aspect 730 4 years ago. It has a 69 ° head tube angle, a 73 ° seat tube angle and 427 mm chainstay. It's a 27,5er, but with the 900er series you also get 29er. It had a coil spring XCR 32, however I swapped it to a air XCR 32 later. The drivetrain is not a 1 x, but with a 2 x 9 it has a far bigger gear spread ratio for climbing and is capable of pedalling at 50 km/h, without the expensive components of a 11 or 12 speed drive train. It also has MT 200s (180F/160R), and a Hollowtech 2 BB, the only downside on the head tube is it isn't tapered, but the XCR 32 is available in 1 1/8 inch straight too. It has an aluminium Deore derailleur, combined with Acera M 3000 shifters (this combination shifts very good), but it has no clutch derailleur since they weren't that common 4 years ago. Today the Aspect frame is a different one, the new frame has 68 ° head tube angle, 74 ° seat tube angle and 435 mm chainstay.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sounds like a man who knows his bike! Thanks for sharing!👍🏻

[@memememe843]

Great video. The Vitus Sentier is also worth a look.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

I put it in my Best hardtails video dropping tomorrow.🤘🏻

[@user..Aa..Bb..]

Smashed it MTB. Caught up and gives me an idea what to buy and what to look for. Still new to this but getting there. I think no2 could b it. Cheers bud.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers!🍻 Nice to have you in the audience and thanks for the support!👊🏻

[@xmikerx666]

Just wish some of the local specialist shops carried bikes in this price range rather than the multi thousand £ ones only. Definitely looking at getting one of these.

[@lomax1919]

Great background music ;-)

[@robthesasquatch6482]

I agree with alot of what you have to say. But a little heavy on the big box hate much? Schwinn, kent, and mongoose are putting out bangers

[@davidoldham1545]

I have a cannondale trail 6 frame and geometry is fantastic shimano mt200 160mm rotors front and back fast rolling wtb ranger tyres shimano groupset i love it

[@insertgenericnamehere7774]

Bought a Giant Talon 1, 29" two weeks ago, my first MTB! What can i say, i love it, feels sooo good. Going to change pedals and tyres, and look for other grips at next salary. For some reason the dust cover / lid / cap, what ever you wanna call it, broke so RN i'm rolling with a schrader cap and some tape.. Guess i got unlucky with the plastic or something, the threaded part of it broke in two which caused it to pop off, or so it seems.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Congrats! And thanks for sharing! Glad to have you in the audience! 🤘🏻

[@insertgenericnamehere7774]

Anything MTB got me hooked. I've developed quite the addiction, atleast it's a healthy one (So far)

[@TopToBottomMTB]

@@insertgenericnamehere7774 Nice! Let’s keep it healthy!👊🏻

[@jordangrose698]

Nice video. I got the Kona Lava Dome last year it has the same specks. It’s the best bike I have ever had I love the bike but it came with Maxis Recon tires and I can’t wait to up grade them

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing and commenting Jordan!🤘🏻

[@michaelblencowe4241]

I really enjoyed this video. So much that I've watched it multiple times. Which one of these would be best for more xc riding?

[@dennisdose5697]

Just three notes on the Giant Talon. Retail is only $900, not $980. Has an air fork. Wide variety of sizes. Steeper head tube angle, but I like that. I hate the wheel flop of slack front geo. But that's me. Cool selection of bikes.

[@markuskorn4829]

Just ordered a Marino. Excited :-)

[@Doublethizzle]

Love the video! I am actually looking to getting back into bikes so this is perfect. *NEXT* *VIDEO* - what about, upgrades to-do first? I am older, and thusly, I have some disposable income to play with . . . so, what upgrade should be first?

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sounds great! In the works…👍🏻

[@AjWavvyIsHim]

thank you this helps a lot even though i don't got this much money for a bike but when i do and if i get enough i can get one of these. I have a schwinn sidewinder walmart bike and everytime i go down just a little just it doesn't sound good but my friends got a gt ggressor bike which are like 800 dollars for only 75 bucks which is amazing and he can do anything on his bike almost

[@HelixIsDumb]

I went with the specialised rockhopper elite. I haven’t gotten it yet. But I’m very excited

[@IWASRANSOMED]

got a Kona Lava Dome October last year, and upgraded to an air fork as well as the bottom bracket and cranks. Love it and feels great on steep descents. And it’s smoooth on the trails.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Nice!🤘🏻

[@EarthSurferUSA]

I say air forks get too much credit over coil springs. They have 2 advantages. They are usually lighter (nobody talks about bike weight anymore), and they are easier to adjust spring rate. But once you adjust spring rate, most people leave it alone and change oil dampening. If you get the correct coil spring rate for your weight and type of riding, a coil spring with very little spring preload is very hard to beat for the forks action,---and it does not go flat. If you don't want to work on/adjust your forks for the best performance, then you pick the air fork. But if you do work on your suspension, there is no reason why a well set up coil spring fork (everything else being equal), will not have better action than air,---especially as the travel gets longer.

[@EarthSurferUSA]

Nuke Proof bars on one of them. I was their head machinist there when they were in Michigan in the mid 90's. I got the carbon hubs to stop breaking and designed the suspension fork Atom Bomb hub. I still have my Ti. framed NK bike, and it may be the most complete vintage NK bike in existence today. I offered it to Europe NK for historical/nostalgic reasons, and they did not reply. I guess they don't care where they came from. Snots.

[@ryanrommeldominguez8554]

I was really surprised that Giant Talon got mentioned at all. LOL! I got one slightly used from a friend. I got it for 300$ and I am really happy with it and even happier now. ^_^

[@TopToBottomMTB]

🤙🏻Nice!

[@RobRob2Llife]

Just curious is the specialized rockhopper comp or trek Marlin 5 gen 2 ok buys 2ith potential upgrades? Awesome video as well

[@chadsmith4918]

I just picked up a Trek Marlin 7. It is a Gen 3, and its supposed to have better geometry. But I'm a noob so all of that was over my head. At any rate, I can't wait for it go be ready!!! First mountain bike!!

[@GoldFus1on]

how is it so far?

[@chadsmith4918]

@GoldFus1on So far, so good. Only rode it twice, but I can't wait for more!

[@GoldFus1on]

@@chadsmith4918 Good to hear! I am looking into marlin 6 gen 3

[@garethhughes5745]

the Trek near the end is the only one I noticed which has rack mounts for any long distance rides, plus 2 bottle cage holders. Essential stuff in my book. Not sure why they are limiting bikes so much nowadays, never used to be like this, as you'd know, being a seasoned biker yourself.

[@ollieeales01]

You can get the rockhopper for a lot cheaper but not as highly specked

[@kevinc9515]

Very informative. Thank you!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers! Thanks for watching!

[@fcoalvaradov]

Amazing video, love the geometry analysis as it´s the only thing that you can´t change and it´s better to upgrade the whole bike. Sadly in mexico the vitus and kona are nonexistent, I´ll probably go with the marin as I am upgrading an old 26" mtb, and don´t love the steep headtube angle of specialized and trek. Also analyzed the geometry on the Trek Roscoe and felt something was off, maybe you can check it out (the seat tube marks 69.7°)

[@EireFirst2024]

I've the San quentin, it's a 2.5 ( basically a mix of parts of the 2 & the 3 😂), it's an absolute beast, just a word of advice - if you're usually say a large, then get an extra large.. You DEFINITELY need to go up a size with them. Happy pedalling 👍👍

[@davidsen1805]

Aaaaaand almost everything is out of stock XD. Guess your amazing 350k viewed video might have something to do with that lol. Fantastic video though, hopefully there will be stock soon!

[@sauravnakoti]

We hardly get any bike in India fortunately Marin was available and after lot of research I went with San Quentin 1 Being new to MTB an year back ,I would say Marin was my right decision it is so good for this price if you specifically looking for improving your skills and riding trails with lil enduro stuff Pros: My Sanquentin 1 has both 180 rotors R n F Confidence inspiring /Geo wide 2.6 chunky tires Wide handle bars Solid frame Cons: Sprung fork which actually got soft after riding it for 1 year Sealed bottom cartridge and chain ring The chain keeps coming off on lower gears/smaller ring while riding enduro terrain - need to buy chain guide Seat post clamp worn out in an year Neutral on : cassette and gear range is ok ok Tektro brakes (not very good not bad) handle bar grips

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks for sharing your insight Saurav! Happy to have people like you in the audience! Cheers!🍻

[@E_J_R_giges]

Awesome video! You have a new subscriber.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sick!!!!!! Thanks for the support Eric! 👊🏻

[@derekdavis6508]

Ragley Marley 2.0 is on sale chain reaction, $990.00, and Voodoo Wazoo with shipping from across the pond is.$951.00, those are not bad either.

[@anuar.m.y]

I have this very specific bike and a specialized stump jumper full suspension.. the marin feels heavy AF in contrast and the hubs feel SLOW as in they probably need to be rebuilt, i bought it used and I think that was the problem overall, HOWEVER all and all the closest to a dirt bike geo and it is front lift happy with the head angle, it comes in 27.5 BUT if you are planning on upgrading the front fork, then you can go with a 29er front fork (IE make it a mullet) over all o bought this bike as my learner's bike for manual and bunny hop however the marin i got has bad hubs which make the bike feel REALLY heavy and not ROLL happy, consider also i have a PK ripper DJ and that bike with a single gear can out-run my current Marin, they only 2 things i would do to my Marin right now is fix the hubs and smaller 2.3 tires rather than the 2.6s it comes with

[@jaybriault]

mounting points are what i look for on a frame and internal cable routing.

[@Quarknjaguar]

snagged a Merida Big.Nine SLX discounted to 1050 last week.. absolute banger for the buck, comes with a Markhor and xt derailleur

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sick buddy! Good for you! That’s a great price for that bike!🤘🏻

[@mickhurley7305]

great video, you really broke it all down for a novice old guy

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Thanks for the kind words! Glad you liked it!🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@PghMtbRides]

Giordano intrepid 690 shipped. Can still do upgrades like fork, headset and clutch derailurer and still be under 1k

[@YoBooBoo]

I went with the Giant Talon 29”. New to mountain biking and love the bike thus far. I think before tax and delivery I paid $970.

[@tonyhaltmar1383]

Hey bud, A little late to the show, I know. Great info! Without taking up too much of your time, I appreciate the input. Is the Rocky Mountain fusion 30 a decent bike for a beginner? I just bought one for $1069. I plan on getting something nicer, upgrading, down the road… THANK YOU!

[@DrSagaciousone]

Thank you! Great review!!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Cheers!

[@jackdaniels2127]

I’ve got the rockhopper! Worth every penny.

[@edtorres6463]

I started mountain biking a year ago and bought a GT Avalanche Comp. It comes with a Deore 1x10 drivetrain. The #1 upgrade for a hardtail is the PNW Coast dropper. Why? It is the only dropper with 40mm of air suspension. I live in Arizona and this dropper has saved my lower back. The next upgrade was the Suntour Epixon 120mm air fork. It weighs around 1900 grams which cost me $160 on Amazon.

[@miguelfragoso7023]

Do you have the link for that Amazon listing?

[@edtorres6463]

@@miguelfragoso7023 It was over a year ago.

[@ASC63Funky]

I like the Kona Lava dome I just want to ride along green lanes and grass verges along my local river

[@gabrielash75]

I under this list is based on regular retail pricing but the Diamondback Sync’r which normally retails for $1500 is currently on sale for $999. For that price you cannot find a bike with better specs.

[@stevewillcutts5374]

I just placed my order for the same San Quentin I grey/black, earlier today!!! Awesome you think it's as cool as I think it will be!!!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Sick! You’re gonna have such a good time on that bike!🤘🏻

[@stevewillcutts5374]

@@TopToBottomMTB OMG!!! I can't believe the tech jump from the 90's era Trek 850 I ran back in the day to THIS!!! Beyond Impressed!!! Beast Mode ON!! Too 😎 Cool!

[@TopToBottomMTB]

@@stevewillcutts5374 you get your bike already?

[@stevewillcutts5374]

@@TopToBottomMTB Yeah!!! Already modding, lol. OneUp dropper post, wolftooth barcentric remote, entity headlights etc. Just ordered a repair stand cause we gotz cray threading angles!!!?!!😂

[@sluzbazaorganizacijucentra4050]

Main cons for all of those bikes is suntour cartrige which is bad when riding on lower temperatutes .Starting from 10 C till 0 it just gets worse as temperature drops.Cartrige becomes lasy and fork working reminds of walmart forks.With rebound on at those temperatures it could be too lasy to doo anything so forks usualy compress more and more but turns back so slowly so it wont be in coordination with bump ratio and in general fork doesent work .Thats ultimate con for all those bikes.All Hlo and rebound suntours have that problem more or less starting from xct till epicon.Others,well i dont know but probably the same thing.Thats why i dont use suntours but manitou or Rs.If i had to use suntour i throw out cartrige and place other spring or if its newer with counter cartrige i drill it to extract oil.All in all suntours are like Norinco,easy to mantain but nothing especially good.

[@bigphil1987blackpool]

The voodo bikes are a UK exclusive brand distributed by our biggest bike chain Halfords really good value for money along with the Boardman ranges, check out some of the ragley hardtails they come soecced with marz and rockshox air forks and better specs for the money

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Will do! Thanks Phil!!🤘🏻

[@devinedwards1752]

I have a Giant Talon and love it. However in you video you stated a con of it being only 80mm of travel. However all of the 29’s have 100mm of travel. Only the xs and small 27.5 are 80mm. The rest are 100mm.

[@stephenboswell354]

Just got the kona can’t wait to ride.

[@ShouldaWaved]

I miss my major Jake, so much it's like a part of me died

[@ianchissy]

Norco seems to be clearing out the Fluid HT 2 this fall, looks like great value

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Great deals going around!

[@SSyclone]

16:45 I have a 2021 Giant Talon 2 29er that I bought a while ago and it has 100mm travel. (I did upgrade the fork to a recon, but the stock fork had 100mm travel).

[@ish474]

I really wanted The San Quentin 3 but they just weren't available when I was buying, ended up with a Commencal Meta that I love so I didn't lose either way

[@frustratedalien666]

I agree with the recommendations here but some of these bikes are hard to find or come with hidden costs while shipping to Canada. I played it safe and bought a 2023 Trek Roscoe 7 while it was on sale. It cost me $1879 CAD but it really is terrific. Maybe down the line I'll upgrade the brakes and the fork but it'll be a loooong time before my skill outgrows the bike.

[@TopToBottomMTB]

Nice congrats! I agree with you that bikes can cost different prices around the world but I thought I’d include something in there for everyone.🤘🏻

[@frustratedalien666]

@@TopToBottomMTB Any suggestions for sites like bikesonline for Canadians? I had lots of options in the US but I moved to Calgary 6 months ago lol. I think you are in Canada too and share my pain 😁

[@vj19xrk9]

might want to mention buying late season for possible discounts and provided maintainence thrown in.

[@anandcherian.585]

A lot of MTB wisdom in this video

[@TopToBottomMTB]

💪🏻