A friend needs a new hardtail (probably 29er) for around £600. He's after a proper off-road bike with relaxed geometry for growing his skills on. What's good right now? I know Vitus is an option. Anything else people can recommend? Best frame and forks for the money is the main thing, half-decent wheels would be good too. Ta for any tips.
Voodoo Bizango is around this price, a bit more at full RRP but less when on offer. It's well regarded by the mags and people on here.
Onza Payoff or Jackpot are around this price too from Onza. Or something from Calibre/Go Outdoors.
I would have said the base model vitus sentier but they're all out of stock on CRC, next year's models are just being released.
Is used not an option?
Thanks for these: great ideas so please keep them coming. He'd prefer new really - it's his first mountain bike and he'll feel more confident buying new and not having to worry about checking for damage, condition, wear etc etc. Thanks again.
Bizango. Wins awards.
Its over the budget but the new Calibre Line 29 has a good spec, geometry and it looks great. There is the Line 20 650b at £600 too.
https://www.bikeradar.com/advice/buyers-guides/the-best-mountain-bikes-under-500/
Have a look at Vitus Nucleus?
Checkout the Canyon sale - I just bought my wife a rather nice Grand Canyon 29er for less than £600 and it's actually got a really nice spec - well worth a look
They have the male versions of the same bike still in stock BTW -
Second hand?
Eg this, hopefully haggle £50 off leaves some spare cash.
https://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/2631144/
You could have my orange p7 29 size L for 600. Fox rhythm forks, mavic wheeks, shimami 1x10 etc. Located in Hampshire
I see the 2020 Vitus Nucleus finally has a pic up on CRC
The line 29 Calibre above looks nice but is way over budget!
The line 10 is on offer for £650 on Go Outdoors at the moment though. Might be worth a look - it had good reviews when it came out and is meant to be a lot of fun.
Bizango - nuff said!
Thanks everyone. He bought a Calibre Line 10, reduced on Go Outdoors to £650. I think he's done the right thing - it gets rave reviews (Guy Kestevan knows what he's on about) and it's a bike to grow his skills on and have a lot fun. He's in Calderdale, so a proper all-rounder will suit him well.
Guy Kestevan
knows what he’s on about
... seems to rave about every bike he rides.