I'm going to do an adventure race in Virginia this April and it includes 60miles of mountain biking. Hybrids are not permitted. There's a combination of wide open trails and single track. I'd like to keep the cost around $1,000, which is a lot for me and I don't want to purchase the wrong bike. I'd like to do a lot more of these races.
I just hit 40 and I'm hopeful these races will help me beat father time :)
Look for a Santa Cruz super-light on Craigslist and eBay. You should be able to find a bike in good shape at that price point that will take good care of you in the race and after.
DO NOT buy a new bike in that price range. Way too heavy.
Thank you for the feedback. Should I be looking for 29"? that seems to be what I see recommended.
I don't know if I'd say way too heavy.
Scott Scale 29 Comp is under a grand and stock around 29 pounds, the Team is about $1200 @ 27.5 pounds, and for $1600 there's the Elite @ 25.5 pounds.
Don't know that a 29'r will buy a new rider much especially on an unknown course. With a lot of single-track it may be a hinderance.
Trek gets a bad rap, but their Gary Fisher 29'er line has some nice bikes. Go with an aluminum hardtail frame and Shimano SLX or SRAM X.7 components with a good front shock (Say a Rockshock Reba or Fox 29er). You may need to spend a little more, say $1200 to $1400 for the bike. I'd say expect the weight to be in the 28lb. range.
You can also make the bike a little faster if you plan on running on mostly fireroads by going with a thinner and less aggressive file tooth patterned 29'er tire.
If the trails are really light, then you could even consider a cross bike which would be lighter, but would not handle single-track very well.
The right 29er won't be a hindrance. If you want new and a 29er, the Giant XTC29er hardtail is great. I had one all last year and it slayed the North Vancouver and Whistler singletrack. Some people say a 29er will help a new rider more than a more seasoned veteran.
I had a Superlight once upon a time too. That was an awesome bike too. Going used will likely get you a better bike.
I know I can get more for the money with a used bike, but my concern is that I don't know enough about shocks, brakes, and other components. My hope is to find the right bike and find a reputable place to help me put the pieces together. I'm 6'2 and 210lbs. I'd take advice on shocks, break, seat, pants, etc...
One other item is how easy the bike is to breakdown or fix tires. Part of the race requires putting the bike in a canoe.
Thanks to everyone. This is a great forum with a lot of good people.
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