Yesterday I bought a specialized Rock hopper comp for 950. The girl at the shop was kinda weird though. She asked what I was gonna use it for so I told her juts riding around the city and maybe some light trails eventually and she goes “yeah hardtails aren’t made for riding on trails, they’re really good for like riding bike paths and stuff” the shows me an 8,000 dollar full suspension 😂 I’m thinking to myself ok lady, that’s a weird way to get a sale especially when I watch people ride hardtails all the time on trails. I’m a beginner and I’m not planning on sending it down whistler or some gnarly mt trail 😂
I have a hardtail. Look up the PNW Coast dropper. It is the ONLY dropper post with 40mm of air suspension. This was made for a hardtail. It has saved my lower back. This is the #1 upgrade for a hardtail.
More love for the Roscoe, I ride mine everywhere over everything even though it's only the 7, the frame is really what it's about....anything that breaks or wears out will be replaced with better gear but it is a truly do it all bike, I used to ride dual sus a few years ago but was really missing that connected/direct hardtail feeling.
That’s where I’m at, I have a polygon Siskui full sus, but I miss my hard tail, it unfortunately was in our rv that burned down, sooo my good ol diamond back hard tail is a puddle of aluminum.
Was saving for possibly getting a full suspension bike. The guy at Bicycle Sport Shop (now corporately owned by Trek) in Austin said it wasn't necessary unless you're one of the guys dropping down mountains on RUclips. Got the Roscoe 8 instead, and have been really happy with it. Have hit the trails pretty hard, and haven't regretted the decision for a second. The cost savings is nice, too. Saved a grand over the Slash 7 I was going to buy, and that money can go toward upgrading my son's bike (12 years old) when he's ready. Thank goodness for ethical salespeople.
@@99spokes dang, when did that happen? I was just looking up a Texas dealer via their website not that long ago. It's my next dream hardtail. My 2016 Jamis Dakota Sport has done me well but would love a bit more of an aggressive HT and the Scouts are specced pretty great at the Comp level.
It happened months ago when the parent company went into administration (basically bankruptcy). That doesn’t mean unsold new bikes might not still be around in the US but as of now existing stock appears to be the end of the road for Nukeproof.
I think the Salsa Timberjack XT is worth a mention. Super versatile and well spec'd with geometry probably most comparable to the Trek Roscoe and usually at $2,000 if not on sale for less.
I bought a San Quentin frameset for my wife and am waiting for it to come back from getting powdercoated in a GLORIOUS cherry red. Totally psyched to build it up for her as a lightweight mullet beastie.
Great overview video! In that Cannondale Habbit you said you’d love to see them find a way to fit an air fork. They are really teasing with the XCR, because you can affordably swap the coil spring for an air spring on that fork.
I got a Trek Marlin 4 that I use to go to work and do some mountain biking with it! Love it! Cost me 800$ but planning to buy a e-mtb in about 2-3 years cause I dont have the money 😂
Got an older Jamis Komodo for a steal 150 bucks and its the best hard tail ive ridden. Feels so light and strong and the forks feel like riding on a cloud. I know the new ones are just under 2000 but one hell of a bike for what you get.
I went with a Rockhopper for my first bike and I love it! It’s able to handle blues and blacks no problem. Tables , jumps and drops are good too with some leg work. And she’s fast af
Loving my Ragley BluePigRace,Bought end of March this year for £1500, and what a spec for the price,Lyric select 160mm,SLX Drivetrain and 4 pot brakes with 'finned' pads,XT shifter and rear mech,Horizon V2 wheels with Maxxis rubber,175mm dropper..and a quality paint job..63.5 head angle .Ha!
Love my 23’ Ragley Big Wig. I’ve specked it myself, with 34 Fox Factory at 140mm, Magura MT5 brakes, CB 170mm dropper and SRAM GX drivetrain. Spank 359/350 with Spank hubs, covered in Maxxis Agassi/ DHR2. The geo works great for aggressive riding and the 4130 frame soaks up a lot of chatter. Weights just at 31.5 lbs for a large. Swapping to a lighter tire, I could easily dip below 30 lbs.
I just picked up a GT Avalanche expert 2022 secondhand and I love it maybe even more than my Orange P7 (although they are built for different things tbf) the GT is the first 29er I’ve ridden and I’m instantly converted, I know it’s perhaps not a “top of the range” hardtail but I think it might be the nicest frame geometry (for me) that I’ve ever ridden.
I’m got a trek marlin 5 I’m new to mountain biking but I got really into and since the fork is not the best but good for price I got a Marzouki bomber Z2 it’s pretty cheap for such a good fork
I owned a Roscoe 8 and then upgraded to a carbon chameleon by Santa Cruz I love the option that you can change the wheels size from 27.5 to 29er on the Santa Cruz the down fall is that it’s retired
Just got a killer deal on a Giant XTC SLR 2 - on Giant's website. Shipped to my local bike shop for setup. It was only $1100 and included a Saris hitch rack which is normally $580. It's got XC race geo, only 27lbs and spec'd really well.
Roscoe 8 is more than capable on Northern Wisconsin trails such as Mt. Ashwabay and Winman Trails. Recommend test riding the bike your interested in before buying.
I’ve had the privilege of riding some trails in your area and the UP and I agree, the Roscoe is a great bike for that kind of undulating, technical terrain!
what do you think about the GT Zaskar elite? they are 56% off from 1800 down to 800 which is hard to beat. Haven't seen many reviews about it yet but i think it might be the best budget hardtail at the moment cause it's heavily discounted.
I’d love to add a contender, the Poseidon Norton! Just finished building mine with a Fox34 Factory, Magura trail Sl, BOOST M1900 DT Swiss wheels + 54t upgrade and 11 speed diore drivetrain for about the same price as the Meta.
I love hardtails, and the best value are going to be aluminum. I have a preference for threaded bottom brackets, Shimano components and steeper head tube angles with 1x12 drivetrain. My top 5 would be: #1 Specialized Chisel #2 Orbea Alma H20 #3 BMC Twostroke AL Four #4 Scott Scale 965 #5 Trek Procaliber 6 Honorable Mentions for: Mondraker Chrono R Canyon Exceed CF 5 I was able to find the BMC Twostroke brand new for $750 and the Chisel & Alma brand new for just under $1000 within the last 3 months. I saw a barely used Scott on Craigslist for $450 (gone in 1 day) and there are plenty of deals for barely used bikes and sometimes they have premium upgrades to the forks, dropper posts, and more if you're ok with a used bike.
I went for a Ragley Big Wig and replaced an Orbea Laufey frame with it. I lost some climbing capability but I working on my stamina to make up for that. Well I got a lot more special sauce for going downhill ❤ Where did you find the San Quentin in full 29? I had it on my short list, but I was dropped, because of the 27,5 wheels only and already had two 29 wheelsets ... Some moments later ... Dang it. It is brand new in 29"... Too bad 😅
I recommend the British brand Whyte 900 and 800 series bikes , iv rode hardtails from entry level to high end and for the money they are well specked and as much fun and capable as anything iv ever ridden inc full sus. Around £1000 to £2000 sterling depending on model and well worth it
You’re right, Whyte makes some pretty awesome bikes! Sadly they’re a bit hard to get your hands on in the states, but I’d love to get one in to review!
Any thoughts on frame only offerings? I was out of mountain biking for a bit, so bought a mid-level aluminum framed bike, but missed the chromoly twang of my old GT. Bought a Sonder Signal ST because it was available as a full build. I loved how it rode, it but it lit up bright gold in the sun. Didn't think I had the skills or conditioning to warrant so much attention grabbing flash. So I bought the Pipedream ST5 frame I originally wanted, in classic green, and switched over all the parts. After some upgrades I could rebuild the Sonder. Now I have two cool bikes and two broken credit cards. Another example of trying to save money but ending up spending more?
I think the high engagement hub on the Roscoe knocks it back up to a five based on the criteria presented. With as good as forks have gotten nowadays you’re going to spend quite a bit more before you actually feel a worthy difference there. And Quite frankly, the stock fork suits the bike. The Roscoe 8 is suuuuuuch a good deal it’s almost ridiculous.
What about the Roscoe 7? I wanted the Roscoe 6 since I'm a beginner, but that was sold out. So now I'm between the 7 and the 8. My initial budget was literally at 1.2 before
@@Javier-b8b sorry didn’t see this, Maybe the post below solves your issue. My budget was 1600. The Roscoe 7 had that standard base level meh’ness that is good enough but will leave you wondering if you made the right decision later on. I think I was preferring a Nukeproof Vs that guy if I remember right, But the 8 was so good the extra cash was a no brainer. If anyone was gonna buy the 7 with options I had at the time, I’d have told them to save their cash and get the 8.
I got the 2023 Trek Roscoe 7. I know it isn't the 8, but she's done well for me on the trails and I can always upgrade components on it as it has the same frame as the 8 and 9, and I suppose the 6 now. lol
I have Roscoe 7 .... brakes SLX 4 PISTON DISC BRAKES BRM7120 BLM7100 LX dual caliper and MT 8100 203 and 180 disc's excellent braking pover and rekon race 29 x 2.4 tires...SRAM handles Giant Flipside Commuter Pedal. Really good bike for XC and trail run.
I have now the Cube attention slx 2022 but i want something lighter and better for the hills in the woods. Trek procaliber 8 2024 or Trek roscoe 8? Good comfort and agility is a must.
Nice! The Roscoe will lean a bit. Ore towards comfort, whereas the Procaliber will be more agile. I’d say the Roscoe would be the better option for all-around trail riding
Just purchased the Nukeproof scout 290 Elite, it’s not arrived yet but I cannot wait to get on them trails and burn 🔥 happy riding guys ! Everyone has a personal preference my mates got a Saracen that we had in high school and it looks brand new with the upgrades he’s done, nothing special but it gets him out having a laugh and some fun to escape life a little 😎👍🏻🔥
Hey. I love your video! At the end you said "bikes are for everyone". Well, I'm a big guy. a few years back I bought my first mountain bike to ride on paved trails cause I wanted to try and lose some weight. At that time I was around 365-370. I rode it , not everyday but maybe a couple days a week and then covid hit. I stopped riding. I gained more weight. Now over 400. I have Bad knees. I'm starting to go back to gym doing cardio but because of my knees I'm limited. Doc said, find a bike that will hold you and ride. The pounds will melt off. Okay. So I have this bike. Can you please tell me...the bike that I bought has a weight limit. It is a 2019 specialized comp 29er hardtail Rockhopper. It held my weight before I'm wondering if you had any big riders like me ride a hardtail like mine? And will it hold me at 400? I'm only riding flat paved trails. If you or any of your subs can help me out with any info or suggestions, it would greatly be appreciated. Thanks guys.
Glad you enjoyed the video! I sadly don't have much knowledge on that, but I'd imagine if you stick to riding paved or gravel paths until you get closer to the bike's weight limit you'd be fine. Bast of luck, stoked you're getting back into it!
I’d take a BMC Twostroke 01 five, over the Canyon Exceed-which is $300 more than the Canyon but it has much better and versatile geometry than the Canyon- I think BMC has nailed the sweet spot for modern XC geometry…..
Today I finally decided to buy the Cannondale Habit HT1, I know it wasn’t really mentioned in the vid… Do you think it is a good bike for its price? (Btw my reseller sold it to me at 1200€ and not at 1700€)
Can anyone recommend a newbie what kinda bike I need ? I don't think I will be doing hardcore tracks with jumps and stuff but more trails in the woods and I want it to work good in asphalt aswell It's a jungle if bikes and I have no idea what I'm looking for ..
I'm a noob too and I just ordered the Rosco 8 two hours ago. Been looking around for weeks, studying everything I can find. The bike I want is 8k... but that's beyond out of my price range. Rosco 8 seemed like the best bike for me, for my needs, within my price range. My needs appear to be the same as yours.
@@Fishplants My other choice was the Marlin 7. But I decided to go with the Rosco 8 just incase I decide to get a little adventurous. Overkill, maybe. But I'd rather be over prepared than under prepared.
@@darcylea2993 yes that's what Im thinking to but all bikes are out of stock here in Sweden lol so I'll just wait a little longer 🚴♂️ Been looking at the marlin myself to 😅 Searching for weeks but it's between the marlin or Roscoe
@@Fishplants Any bike will do anything you want, depending on how determined you are. 30 years ago, I used 21 speed road bike, with a baby seat attached to the back, in the gravel and on dirt trails with all the rocks and tree roots, even jumped it many times. I made it through everything.
I am in the market for a new bike as I crashed mine hard and bent my crank, cracked the rear hub, bent the front axle, broke a couple spokes and my derailleur bent 45°. It is cheaper to buy a new bike than fix my 2019 Specialized rockhopper comp. It is a shame because I like that frame, but upgrading everything that is broken will cost $1600+. Not even crazy upgrades, like slightly better than stock. The mtb industry is out to lunch with their pricing.
Hi, What about Specialized Fuse?? I own one during thise 2023 and it's pretty similar to the Cannondale Habit... But it brings better specs like wheels, drive train and fork and price it might be the same
Just got a 22 Specialized Chisel frame and looking to build it out on a budget. any suggestions on a good balance of a decent group set, wheels, and shocks with low cost & weight. Thanks in advance.
Nice, that’s awesome! I think a 12 speed deore drivetrain is by far the best budget groupset, and then I’d explore PinkBike classifieds for a lightly used wheeler and suspension. Lots of time you can find parts that are essentially brand new, just taken off and replaced with higher quality parts when the bike was originally purchased
Here are the two bikes side by side on our website: 99spokes.com/compare?bikes=trek-marlinplus-6-2024%2Ccube-reaction-hybrid-performance-625-2023 I'd go with the Trek if you plan to do mostly trail riding, it's lighter and has a bit more trail-focused geometry. But if you plan to mostly commute or ride forest roads, then that shouldn't be an issue, and the cube has a bigger battery so you should be able to fit in longer rides
I dont have a mountain anywhere around, and I dont ride for speed/time, so what's that? Trail? Definitely not XC or AM, and probably not enduro. Are there any hardtails dialed for just normal trail riding? Pedal up some, go down some. Rock beds. Small drops. etc. Seems like all bikes are either XC with super steep geo, or AM/DH/Enduro with super slack gro and 780mm of travel. I want a hardtail for somewhere between XC and Enduro, thats still easy to manual and ride uphill.
Test ride some bikes at your local bike shops. I’d totally go with an XC based off your comment, but bikes are totally a personal thing where everyone is different
Great dirt jumper! But the lack of rear derailleur/dropper post compatibility doesn’t make it a great option as a trail bike. The Specialized Fuse would be the better option from the big S
I’ve been looking a lot at hardtails and I keep hearing the Rockhopper is the best. Surprised it wasn’t on the list. I’ve heard Specialized bikes are built better than Trek.
Hmm, can’t say I’d agree there. The Rockhopper has some pretty outdated geometry (68.5 degree HTA, short reach, etc.) I think something like the 3rd gen Trek Marlin would be a much better option if you’re looking for something under $1,000
Yesterday I bought a specialized Rock hopper comp for 950. The girl at the shop was kinda weird though. She asked what I was gonna use it for so I told her juts riding around the city and maybe some light trails eventually and she goes “yeah hardtails aren’t made for riding on trails, they’re really good for like riding bike paths and stuff” the shows me an 8,000 dollar full suspension 😂 I’m thinking to myself ok lady, that’s a weird way to get a sale especially when I watch people ride hardtails all the time on trails. I’m a beginner and I’m not planning on sending it down whistler or some gnarly mt trail 😂
Ah man, sorry to hear that! Elitist cyclists are the worst!
I have a hardtail. Look up the PNW Coast dropper. It is the ONLY dropper post with 40mm of air suspension. This was made for a hardtail. It has saved my lower back. This is the #1 upgrade for a hardtail.
I also own a Rockhopper and I’m ripping with it ! It’s so much fun specially after a couple minor upgrades
It’s crazy how I’m reading this the day after I get that same bike
@@DeclanEwing-ev9xg hell yeah!!! Get some good pedals on it and get to ripping!!! I’m doing my first 15 mile XC race on the Rockhopper in a few weeks.
More love for the Roscoe, I ride mine everywhere over everything even though it's only the 7, the frame is really what it's about....anything that breaks or wears out will be replaced with better gear but it is a truly do it all bike, I used to ride dual sus a few years ago but was really missing that connected/direct hardtail feeling.
That’s a great way to do it, just upgrade what you need as you need it!
Replace my 7 fox seat post ang orange factory
That’s where I’m at, I have a polygon Siskui full sus, but I miss my hard tail, it unfortunately was in our rv that burned down, sooo my good ol diamond back hard tail is a puddle of aluminum.
I have the Trek Rascoe 7 2023. Love it 140mm of front fork travel and a dropper post. I can still hit 3’ jumps no problem on this, I got it for $1650
Nice!!
Was saving for possibly getting a full suspension bike. The guy at Bicycle Sport Shop (now corporately owned by Trek) in Austin said it wasn't necessary unless you're one of the guys dropping down mountains on RUclips. Got the Roscoe 8 instead, and have been really happy with it. Have hit the trails pretty hard, and haven't regretted the decision for a second. The cost savings is nice, too. Saved a grand over the Slash 7 I was going to buy, and that money can go toward upgrading my son's bike (12 years old) when he's ready. Thank goodness for ethical salespeople.
That's awesome, glad they were able to get you set up on something that sounds like it will work really well for you!
Just bought a Scott scale 970 and it's been a blast!
Found a traveler in my area selling a 3 month old specialized rockhopper comp 29” for $400. This is my first bike since I had a single speed as a kid.
Super stoked on my Nukeproof Scout 290. Definitely a great all mountain bike. Flows and corners beautifully. Can’t get enough of riding it.
Scouts are awesome!! Such a shame Nukeproof isn’t sold in the States anymore 😭😭
@@99spokes totally! I got really lucky to find one near my area before they were totally gone.
@@99spokes dang, when did that happen? I was just looking up a Texas dealer via their website not that long ago. It's my next dream hardtail. My 2016 Jamis Dakota Sport has done me well but would love a bit more of an aggressive HT and the Scouts are specced pretty great at the Comp level.
It happened months ago when the parent company went into administration (basically bankruptcy). That doesn’t mean unsold new bikes might not still be around in the US but as of now existing stock appears to be the end of the road for Nukeproof.
I think the Salsa Timberjack XT is worth a mention. Super versatile and well spec'd with geometry probably most comparable to the Trek Roscoe and usually at $2,000 if not on sale for less.
I bought a San Quentin frameset for my wife and am waiting for it to come back from getting powdercoated in a GLORIOUS cherry red. Totally psyched to build it up for her as a lightweight mullet beastie.
Oh that sounds rad!!
Your website is in a different league to anything else out there. You deserve more success
I appreciate it, we’re working on it!
Great overview video! In that Cannondale Habbit you said you’d love to see them find a way to fit an air fork. They are really teasing with the XCR, because you can affordably swap the coil spring for an air spring on that fork.
That cool, I didn’t know that!
The elephant in the room that was left out of this review is the giant fathom 2 29.
Definitely an awesome bike as well!
what about the norco revolver ht3... just put a deposit on 1
I got a Trek Marlin 4 that I use to go to work and do some mountain biking with it! Love it! Cost me 800$ but planning to buy a e-mtb in about 2-3 years cause I dont have the money 😂
Got an older Jamis Komodo for a steal 150 bucks and its the best hard tail ive ridden.
Feels so light and strong and the forks feel like riding on a cloud.
I know the new ones are just under 2000 but one hell of a bike for what you get.
I went with a Rockhopper for my first bike and I love it! It’s able to handle blues and blacks no problem. Tables , jumps and drops are good too with some leg work. And she’s fast af
Loving my Ragley BluePigRace,Bought end of March this year for £1500, and what a spec for the price,Lyric select 160mm,SLX Drivetrain and 4 pot brakes with 'finned' pads,XT shifter and rear mech,Horizon V2 wheels with Maxxis rubber,175mm dropper..and a quality paint job..63.5 head angle .Ha!
Nice, that sounds like a really solid build, I bet it rips!
Haven't heard of the Voodoo Bizango Pro from Halfords in the UK then. That's an unbelievable bargain for the spec you get.
Commencal meta HT am used with a lovely 38 fox 170mm...that's all you need low budget and extremely fun
That’s a big ol fork on there!!
I just ordered a roscoe 8 for 1600 to hit the trails. Excited af
Heck yeah!!
Love my trek roscoe 9. Perfectly capable.
Super sick bike!!
Love my Giant Fathom 1 in 27.5. Best bang for your buck.
Super rad bike, glad you’re stoked on it!
I had fathom 2 and it was great as well.
Love my 23’ Ragley Big Wig. I’ve specked it myself, with 34 Fox Factory at 140mm, Magura MT5 brakes, CB 170mm dropper and SRAM GX drivetrain. Spank 359/350 with Spank hubs, covered in Maxxis Agassi/ DHR2. The geo works great for aggressive riding and the 4130 frame soaks up a lot of chatter. Weights just at 31.5 lbs for a large. Swapping to a lighter tire, I could easily dip below 30 lbs.
I'm a huge Ragley fan, and your build sounds awesome!! Way to go!
I just picked up a GT Avalanche expert 2022 secondhand and I love it maybe even more than my Orange P7 (although they are built for different things tbf) the GT is the first 29er I’ve ridden and I’m instantly converted, I know it’s perhaps not a “top of the range” hardtail but I think it might be the nicest frame geometry (for me) that I’ve ever ridden.
I’m got a trek marlin 5 I’m new to mountain biking but I got really into and since the fork is not the best but good for price I got a Marzouki bomber Z2 it’s pretty cheap for such a good fork
Nice!!
Love my Marin San Quentin-2 (upgraded to my dream build) 🤩 so crazy superbike
I owned a Roscoe 8 and then upgraded to a carbon chameleon by Santa Cruz I love the option that you can change the wheels size from 27.5 to 29er on the Santa Cruz the down fall is that it’s retired
Nice, glad you got one while you were able!
Just got a killer deal on a Giant XTC SLR 2 - on Giant's website. Shipped to my local bike shop for setup. It was only $1100 and included a Saris hitch rack which is normally $580. It's got XC race geo, only 27lbs and spec'd really well.
Nice!!
Roscoe 8 is more than capable on Northern Wisconsin trails such as Mt. Ashwabay and Winman Trails. Recommend test riding the bike your interested in before buying.
I’ve had the privilege of riding some trails in your area and the UP and I agree, the Roscoe is a great bike for that kind of undulating, technical terrain!
Love my San Quentin..jewelled in some pricey trinkets 👌🏻
Marin Bobcat Trail 5 2023 is another bang for the buck HD
The best purchase I did was 4 years ago, when I bought the specialized Rockhopper comp 29”. It is simply The best bike.
Nice, glad you’re stoked on it 🤙🤙
what do you think about the GT Zaskar elite? they are 56% off from 1800 down to 800 which is hard to beat. Haven't seen many reviews about it yet but i think it might be the best budget hardtail at the moment cause it's heavily discounted.
That sounds like a killer deal!
I’d love to add a contender, the Poseidon Norton! Just finished building mine with a Fox34 Factory, Magura trail Sl, BOOST M1900 DT Swiss wheels + 54t upgrade and 11 speed diore drivetrain for about the same price as the Meta.
I love hardtails, and the best value are going to be aluminum. I have a preference for threaded bottom brackets, Shimano components and steeper head tube angles with 1x12 drivetrain.
My top 5 would be:
#1 Specialized Chisel
#2 Orbea Alma H20
#3 BMC Twostroke AL Four
#4 Scott Scale 965
#5 Trek Procaliber 6
Honorable Mentions for:
Mondraker Chrono R
Canyon Exceed CF 5
I was able to find the BMC Twostroke brand new for $750 and the Chisel & Alma brand new for just under $1000 within the last 3 months. I saw a barely used Scott on Craigslist for $450 (gone in 1 day) and there are plenty of deals for barely used bikes and sometimes they have premium upgrades to the forks, dropper posts, and more if you're ok with a used bike.
Giant fathom line is very nice!
I’m building up a used ns eccentric with 140 rockshox can’t wait till summer to ride it .
Dope, that’ll be a fun bike for sure! Enjoy 🤙🤙
Just ordered the 2024 Rocky Mountain Growler 50. Grabbed a bargain with it half price!
Heck yeah!! Enjoy!
Waiting for my Marin El Roy! Specs were similar to the San Quentin on paper, but with a Bomber Z1 and a steel frame.
Nice!! Never got a chance to ride that bike but always wanted to, enjoy!
All Hardtails are great in my opinion. Still have my canyon stoic 3, and it can still do everything what I want to do.
Couldn’t agree more!! I have an RSD Middlechild and I love it!
I went for a Ragley Big Wig and replaced an Orbea Laufey frame with it. I lost some climbing capability but I working on my stamina to make up for that. Well I got a lot more special sauce for going downhill ❤
Where did you find the San Quentin in full 29? I had it on my short list, but I was dropped, because of the 27,5 wheels only and already had two 29 wheelsets
... Some moments later ...
Dang it. It is brand new in 29"... Too bad 😅
Haha yep, just came out this summer. The Big Wig is a rad bike though, enjoy it!!
I recommend the British brand Whyte 900 and 800 series bikes , iv rode hardtails from entry level to high end and for the money they are well specked and as much fun and capable as anything iv ever ridden inc full sus. Around £1000 to £2000 sterling depending on model and well worth it
You’re right, Whyte makes some pretty awesome bikes! Sadly they’re a bit hard to get your hands on in the states, but I’d love to get one in to review!
My 2019 Cube reaction TM Pro.. Love it!
Bought it new for 1050€.
Never see any reviews anywhere of the Reaction TM, but it's sold out everywhere.
That's rad, glad you like! It's sadly hard to get Cubes here in the US but I'd love to try one out!
Poseidon Norton would be something to consider.
I ride an eastern alpaca. It was $400. It’s awesome.
That’s awesome, I didn’t even know eastern was still around! I had an Easter Trail Digger BMX frame back in the day!
Any thoughts on frame only offerings? I was out of mountain biking for a bit, so bought a mid-level aluminum framed bike, but missed the chromoly twang of my old GT. Bought a Sonder Signal ST because it was available as a full build. I loved how it rode, it but it lit up bright gold in the sun. Didn't think I had the skills or conditioning to warrant so much attention grabbing flash. So I bought the Pipedream ST5 frame I originally wanted, in classic green, and switched over all the parts. After some upgrades I could rebuild the Sonder. Now I have two cool bikes and two broken credit cards. Another example of trying to save money but ending up spending more?
Tons of great options!! Just make sure you find the geo you like!
Salsa Timberjack baby!! Let it fly!!🤟🏽☄️🔥
Great job at covering all the details
Thank you!! Glad you liked it!
can you do a review for the Merida BIG TRAIL 300 2025 please guys lots for the top range one but none for basic model
I'd love to, but sadly they're pretty hard to get here in the U.S.
I think the high engagement hub on the Roscoe knocks it back up to a five based on the criteria presented.
With as good as forks have gotten nowadays you’re going to spend quite a bit more before you actually feel a worthy difference there.
And
Quite frankly,
the stock fork suits the bike.
The Roscoe 8 is suuuuuuch a good deal it’s almost ridiculous.
What about the Roscoe 7? I wanted the Roscoe 6 since I'm a beginner, but that was sold out. So now I'm between the 7 and the 8. My initial budget was literally at 1.2 before
The 8 is on sale for 1599 right now
@@Javier-b8b sorry didn’t see this,
Maybe the post below solves your issue.
My budget was 1600.
The Roscoe 7 had that standard base level meh’ness that is good enough but will leave you wondering if you made the right decision later on.
I think I was preferring a Nukeproof
Vs that guy if I remember right,
But the 8 was so good the extra cash was a no brainer.
If anyone was gonna buy the 7 with options I had at the time,
I’d have told them to save their cash and get the 8.
@@shadowcodr that’s just sick
Poseidon Norton was going for $700 on Black Friday. Hard to beat as a platform to build on
Sweet bike designed by a rad guy!
I got the 2023 Trek Roscoe 7. I know it isn't the 8, but she's done well for me on the trails and I can always upgrade components on it as it has the same frame as the 8 and 9, and I suppose the 6 now. lol
Definitely a super rad bike to upgrade over time, and going that option will allow you to build it up based on your specific needs. Stoked for you 🤙
What exactly is better about the 8 than the 7? I originally looked at the 6, but it's sold out
My Scott aspect 760 (2021) is🧡🔥
Nice!!
They are powerful bikes they don't look like it but they are
I have Roscoe 7 .... brakes SLX 4 PISTON DISC BRAKES BRM7120 BLM7100 LX dual caliper and MT 8100 203 and 180 disc's excellent braking pover and rekon race 29 x 2.4 tires...SRAM handles Giant Flipside Commuter Pedal. Really good bike for XC and trail run.
Specialized Fuse is going for $1699 right now. Anyone think that’s worth it and getting for a hard tail? 130mm, 1x12, dropper post. All you need.
Which Fuse? They have a few different models with different components
@@99spokes fuse sport 27.5.
Giant fathom 2 is great too
Absolutely!!
Alright I’m sold. Ima go get a huffy now
Why is the Cannondale Habit in this list? You use to mock it in your previous video.
Hmm, what video did we mock the Habit HT?
I have now the Cube attention slx 2022 but i want something lighter and better for the hills in the woods. Trek procaliber 8 2024 or Trek roscoe 8? Good comfort and agility is a must.
Nice! The Roscoe will lean a bit. Ore towards comfort, whereas the Procaliber will be more agile. I’d say the Roscoe would be the better option for all-around trail riding
What about the Ghost Lector SF LC essential? Is this one better?
Specialized rockhopper expert. Air fork with Sram components for sub $1100.
Facts buddy, love my 2023 rockhopper expert lagoon blue. With deity deathtrap pedals and deity handlebar
@@jayou1987 mines silver 🤙
How good is the SR Suntour XCM 32 comoared to the Rockshox Recon Silver RL, for a trek Roscoe, or any hardtail with a more aggressive angle 📐
I’d say they’re relatively comparable. Just try and get something with an air spring and adjustable compression adjustment if possible 👌
I love my GT Zaskar LT 29 expert!
Nice, that’s an awesome bike with a huge legacy 👌
Merida big trail 700 such a weapon 4 pot all round and fox 34s
Roscoe 8 on sale now for $1,599
Great time to get one!
@@99spokes it's still $1,599 more than I want to spend, lol.
Gt avalanche user here,great bike!...😊
Nice!! Glad you’re stoked on it 🤙
I just picked up a secondhand avalanche expert yesterday and it’s blowing my mind how good it is 👊
I wonder how unbiased and objective this review was since they have affiliate links....
Those are actually just links to learn more about the bikes on our website, 99spokes.com, not affiliate links 🤙
Nukeproof Scout v3 one of the best hardtails out there too
Super sick bike, but sadly not sold in the U.S. anymore 😭😭
Just purchased the Nukeproof scout 290 Elite, it’s not arrived yet but I cannot wait to get on them trails and burn 🔥 happy riding guys ! Everyone has a personal preference my mates got a Saracen that we had in high school and it looks brand new with the upgrades he’s done, nothing special but it gets him out having a laugh and some fun to escape life a little 😎👍🏻🔥
Hey. I love your video! At the end you said "bikes are for everyone". Well, I'm a big guy. a few years back I bought my first mountain bike to ride on paved trails cause I wanted to try and lose some weight. At that time I was around 365-370. I rode it , not everyday but maybe a couple days a week and then covid hit. I stopped riding. I gained more weight. Now over 400. I have Bad knees. I'm starting to go back to gym doing cardio but because of my knees I'm limited. Doc said, find a bike that will hold you and ride. The pounds will melt off. Okay. So I have this bike. Can you please tell me...the bike that I bought has a weight limit. It is a 2019 specialized comp 29er hardtail Rockhopper. It held my weight before I'm wondering if you had any big riders like me ride a hardtail like mine? And will it hold me at 400? I'm only riding flat paved trails. If you or any of your subs can help me out with any info or suggestions, it would greatly be appreciated. Thanks guys.
Glad you enjoyed the video! I sadly don't have much knowledge on that, but I'd imagine if you stick to riding paved or gravel paths until you get closer to the bike's weight limit you'd be fine. Bast of luck, stoked you're getting back into it!
I’d take a BMC Twostroke 01 five, over the Canyon Exceed-which is $300 more than the Canyon but it has much better and versatile geometry than the Canyon- I think BMC has nailed the sweet spot for modern XC geometry…..
Yeah it definitely gets tricky, but we wanted to keep a hard cutoff of $2K. I agree though, the Twostroke is a pretty rad bike!
I do have dartmoor hornet pro.. great bike for aggrisive bikers
Nice! I wish it was easier to get your hands on one in the US, I’ve always wanted to try one!
What about the commencal meta am? better than the cannondale?
Depends on what you're riding, for more technical terrain than yeah, probably!
Hi! What about Orbea Alma H30 as a hardtail?
Great XC bike! The Laufey is sick too, bet for more aggressive trail riding
I ride à Mondraker chrono 29 and it’s à funy bike ! 🤩
Nice!!
You missed out on the polygon syncline c5 😢
Great bike!!
What are your thoughts on the Poseidon Norton?
Seems like a pretty cool bike! Great, all-around geometry, through axles, and tubeless ready for under $1k is impressive!
Today I finally decided to buy the Cannondale Habit HT1, I know it wasn’t really mentioned in the vid… Do you think it is a good bike for its price? (Btw my reseller sold it to me at 1200€ and not at 1700€)
Definitely!
What do you think of the cube analog 2023 29'
Looks pretty solid for an XC bike, but the geometry won't be super well suited for more aggressive trail riding
Can anyone recommend a newbie what kinda bike I need ?
I don't think I will be doing hardcore tracks with jumps and stuff but more trails in the woods and I want it to work good in asphalt aswell
It's a jungle if bikes and I have no idea what I'm looking for ..
I'm a noob too and I just ordered the Rosco 8 two hours ago. Been looking around for weeks, studying everything I can find. The bike I want is 8k... but that's beyond out of my price range. Rosco 8 seemed like the best bike for me, for my needs, within my price range. My needs appear to be the same as yours.
@@darcylea2993 I've been looking at that bike to, But maybe that's overkill I don't know. You just gonna do casual biking aswell ?
@@Fishplants My other choice was the Marlin 7. But I decided to go with the Rosco 8 just incase I decide to get a little adventurous. Overkill, maybe. But I'd rather be over prepared than under prepared.
@@darcylea2993 yes that's what Im thinking to but all bikes are out of stock here in Sweden lol so I'll just wait a little longer 🚴♂️ Been looking at the marlin myself to 😅 Searching for weeks but it's between the marlin or Roscoe
@@Fishplants Any bike will do anything you want, depending on how determined you are. 30 years ago, I used 21 speed road bike, with a baby seat attached to the back, in the gravel and on dirt trails with all the rocks and tree roots, even jumped it many times. I made it through everything.
I am in the market for a new bike as I crashed mine hard and bent my crank, cracked the rear hub, bent the front axle, broke a couple spokes and my derailleur bent 45°. It is cheaper to buy a new bike than fix my 2019 Specialized rockhopper comp. It is a shame because I like that frame, but upgrading everything that is broken will cost $1600+. Not even crazy upgrades, like slightly better than stock.
The mtb industry is out to lunch with their pricing.
Carrera Hellcat XL Frame is a low end dream mountain bike, and it's as cheap as chips 🎉
Nice! Glad you’re stoked on it!!
Regarding the Commencal, I’m 6’1” with long arms. Do you recommend the XL? Thanks.
Yeah, I think the XL would be perfect, especially given the slightly shorter reach numbers on that bike
I can get a roscoe 8 for like 800 bucke or the san quentin for 1000 damnit hard choice
Both super rad bikes!!
What do you think about Giant Talon 1 2024?
Now am using Trek Emonda
I searching one MTB
I like Trek Marlin 8
What is your opinion?
Marlin 8 is a great bike! Try and get your hands on a 3rd gen model if you can
Hi, What about Specialized Fuse?? I own one during thise 2023 and it's pretty similar to the Cannondale Habit... But it brings better specs like wheels, drive train and fork and price it might be the same
Great bikes, but they’re sadly a bit pricey for what you get, unless you can find one on sale
what is ur opinion about orbea laufey h10 ? i want to buy this bike
Haven't had the chance to ride it, but it looks great! Love the downtube storage compartment too
Just got a 22 Specialized Chisel frame and looking to build it out on a budget. any suggestions on a good balance of a decent group set, wheels, and shocks with low cost & weight. Thanks in advance.
Nice, that’s awesome! I think a 12 speed deore drivetrain is by far the best budget groupset, and then I’d explore PinkBike classifieds for a lightly used wheeler and suspension. Lots of time you can find parts that are essentially brand new, just taken off and replaced with higher quality parts when the bike was originally purchased
Thanks for the great info! I checked out that classified site.@@99spokes
always hardtail
im getting anorco storm 1 se + a dropper post
REI Co Op 1.3
'nuff said
im debating between trek marlin+ 6 2024 and the cube performance 625 2023.. opinions?
Here are the two bikes side by side on our website: 99spokes.com/compare?bikes=trek-marlinplus-6-2024%2Ccube-reaction-hybrid-performance-625-2023
I'd go with the Trek if you plan to do mostly trail riding, it's lighter and has a bit more trail-focused geometry. But if you plan to mostly commute or ride forest roads, then that shouldn't be an issue, and the cube has a bigger battery so you should be able to fit in longer rides
Why no one talks about dartmoor
Man I'd love to ger my hands on a Hornet! Sadly they're pretty hard to come by in the US.
I dont have a mountain anywhere around, and I dont ride for speed/time, so what's that? Trail? Definitely not XC or AM, and probably not enduro. Are there any hardtails dialed for just normal trail riding? Pedal up some, go down some. Rock beds. Small drops. etc. Seems like all bikes are either XC with super steep geo, or AM/DH/Enduro with super slack gro and 780mm of travel. I want a hardtail for somewhere between XC and Enduro, thats still easy to manual and ride uphill.
Yeah, I’d say a typical “trail” hardtail would be ideal, something with around 130mm of travel and a 65-67 degree head tube angle
Honestly, I think a roscoe 7 would be good for you. Something along those lines.
Test ride some bikes at your local bike shops. I’d totally go with an XC based off your comment, but bikes are totally a personal thing where everyone is different
Another bike I recommend is the specialized p4 it’s a 27.5 inch bike perfect bike for jumps and the price sits around 2,400$
Great dirt jumper! But the lack of rear derailleur/dropper post compatibility doesn’t make it a great option as a trail bike. The Specialized Fuse would be the better option from the big S
Dude your bike looks badass, where do I get that lol?
Thanks! That’s the RSD Middlechild, and you can get one from rsdbikes.com!
What do you think about a trek xcaliber 9 I have used it for a year and my shocks bottom caps are missing will that be a problem
Not sure what you mean by that, but if it’s getting the job done for than I see no reason to change!
What about the Norco Torrent, insane bike with crazy geo
I’ve been looking a lot at hardtails and I keep hearing the Rockhopper is the best. Surprised it wasn’t on the list. I’ve heard Specialized bikes are built better than Trek.
Hmm, can’t say I’d agree there. The Rockhopper has some pretty outdated geometry (68.5 degree HTA, short reach, etc.) I think something like the 3rd gen Trek Marlin would be a much better option if you’re looking for something under $1,000
Wished trek x-caliber have boost 148 😗😗😗
No love for the Giant fathom 1?
Great bike!