Hi

I havent ridden a bike for 10+ years but have decided to get back into it for exercise.

Looking to get a beginners bike & got £200-£250 to spend, wont be used much, just sunday riudes over the downs.

im 6’62 so will need either a 22″ or 23″ frame & Not bothered about new or 2nd hand

Have been looking at:

Mongoose Rockadile ALX disc 2010 – http://www.rutlandcycling.com/26083/Mongoose-Rockadile-ALX-Disc-2010—Hardtail-Mountain-Bike.html

Raleigh AT20 – http://www.rutlandcycling.com/29805/Raleigh-20—Special-Edition—Grey—Hardtail-Mountain-Bike.html

or potentially Raleigh AT 30 http://www.rutlandcycling.com/21617/Raleigh-Freeride-AT30—Hardtail-Mountain-Bike.html

Just wondered what you guys think? or can suggest any other alternatives?

Id go for a secondhand Specialized hardrock or a GT avalanch. I have experience of both and they are good bikes. They will both hold value a lot better than the three you have picked.

+1 2nd hand Spec hardrock

see if you can see the bikes in the flesh and throw your leg over to see how they feel

I imagine most people are here will basically say none of the above.

I would really try and get 9 speed if you can.

what about this ?

9 speed wouldn’t be a priority for me but the brakes on the carrera are good.

Good brakes are essential.

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/EN/rockrider-5-2-2010-141402418/
by all accounts ive heard these are good for a starter bike tehboo

I wouldn’t be so sure about the size. I’m 6’3″ and rid an 18″. It depends on the type of riding you do to a degree, but my philosophy is to get the smallest frame I can be comfortable on. Your proportions matter too. What is your inside leg? I would imagine a 21″ Hardrock would do you fine (I used to have one and considered it a bit big for me).

thanks for all the comments guys, I dont want to spend too much on my first bike incase it ends up gathering dust in the garage 😀

my inside leg is 34″, i just presumed that was the right bike size? I saw a 23″ and it seemed too high but I guess i need to see a 22 or 21 first