Okay, I'm about 270lbs. at 5'11" and need a good mountain bike. I used to ride a lot - about 10 years ago - now the playing field is entirely different. I've been looking at both FS and hardtails. While I really like the idea of FS for a newbie like myself, I'm not sure my budget will allow me to purchase a really good one capable of supporting my weight.
My maximum budget for the bike is $1,500 but I'd obviously prefer to spend less. I plan on initially riding "easy" trails and perhaps some bike paths, but as I drop weight I'd like to be able to tackle some more technical trails too.
I was leaning towards either a Trek Fuel 90 (FS) or 6700 (hardtail) until I heard about Kona's new bikes. Evidently their "Hoss" and "Hoss Dee-Lux" are made for big people like myself and the prices are certainly doable. Who has experience with Kona bikes? For a FS rig, I like the specs and look of their "Coiler" a lot, but the price would be a monumental stretch for me.
So, any other suggestions on a beefy FS bike within my budget or a good hardtail? Thanks...
My maximum budget for the bike is $1,500 but I'd obviously prefer to spend less. I plan on initially riding "easy" trails and perhaps some bike paths, but as I drop weight I'd like to be able to tackle some more technical trails too.
I was leaning towards either a Trek Fuel 90 (FS) or 6700 (hardtail) until I heard about Kona's new bikes. Evidently their "Hoss" and "Hoss Dee-Lux" are made for big people like myself and the prices are certainly doable. Who has experience with Kona bikes? For a FS rig, I like the specs and look of their "Coiler" a lot, but the price would be a monumental stretch for me.
So, any other suggestions on a beefy FS bike within my budget or a good hardtail? Thanks...