The Bike Companies DO NOT Want you to Know This!
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- Опубликовано: 5 фев 2025
- Are you caught up in the frenzy of always needing the latest mountain bike? Think again. In this eye-opening video, we delve into why major bike companies might not want you to know the truth about their latest offerings. Join us as we uncover why the vast majority of mountain bikers shouldn't be swayed by the hype of high-tech, expensive bikes.
From wireless shifting to carbon everything, it's easy to get swept up in the allure of cutting-edge features. But do you really need them? Our host breaks down the reality behind the marketing and reveals what truly matters on the trails.
Discover why riding a "budget" bike might be the key to unlocking more fun and freedom on your mountain biking adventures. Learn about the surprising benefits of sticking with older models and explore alternatives like budget brands or hunting for used bikes in today's market.
Forget about keeping up with the latest trends-invest in experiences. Find out why spending money on riding lessons could be the best decision you make for your mountain biking journey.
Join us as we challenge the status quo and uncover the real secrets to enjoying the trails, regardless of the bike you ride. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that could change the way you approach mountain biking forever.
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I’m so grateful for rich people who can afford the best and still find the need to upgrade , because then I get to upgrade my bike at a fraction of the cost. 👍😁
Exactly, I was looking at the S Brand Enduro a few years ago. (Before COVID-19) A year after the pandemic I could find the same bike ridden only 3 times on managed bike paths because the people who bought them were not really into mountain biking.
💯 percent! I love getting peoples new parts they take off their bikes 😁
They are called Beta Testers
@@brendanbriody9268 🤣👍
Haha so true! :) The guy that leads on the Strava leader boards is probably 20kg lighter and keeps his own bike serviced, clean and running smoothly.
I've been in the bike industry for about 10 years, and I've had the pick of the litter when it comes to high-end bikes at crazy low prices. What is the most fun bike I've ridden during that time? Almost certainly my current Stooge Mk6 - a rigid, steel single-speed with modern geo, a dropper, hydraulic brakes and tubeless tyres but no electronic shifting (or any shifting at all), top-end suspension (or any suspension at all)... it's simple, takes me back to my roots, makes old trails fun again and constantly challenges me to be a better rider. I still lust after the latest tech and newest, fanciest bikes, but I know deep down that they won't make me a better rider, and they won't make me have any more fun.
Some wisdom 👍 thanks for the awesome comment.
Mine is a Canyon Spectral AL with a 64 degree head angle. I ride technical trails too, I love it :)
Amen I recently built a rigid SS Surly Krampus and it's incredibly fun
I love this comment, thank you! The most fun I have also is on my old beat up single speed that cost me $350 lol! And find myself wishing I had grabbed my single speed instead of my enduro bike (for the days ride) all the time
Current bike is a 2019 Polygon N9. I don't see myself ever getting rid of it, great bike! However, now is a great time to buy a new bike with the market crashing. New bikes are getting near what I paid in 2019 and sometimes lower!
That’s a great point 👍 Prices are definitely down and you can find some amazing sales.
true and prices still have a long way to fall!!!!
My current bike is 2020 Polygon N9 and I got it for $860. When new bike market is crashing. Used market is nuked.....
Dealers are hurting right now...
A buddy and I both bought new bikes today (not MTB).
2022 Felt Verza Speed 40
Altus 3x9, Hyd Disc $400.
2022 Specialized Allez Sport
Sora 2x9, Rim Brakes $750.
I needed something to putter around town on and he needed something to chase his kid's Orbea.
I totally agree with you 🎉I ride .y 2018 whyte s 150. I've upgraded it though. New hand-built wheels, that I did myself. Upgraded suspension to the charger 2.1 in the pike. And megneg on my deluxe. Rock shox suspension. My reverb starts to be a little like a suspension seatpost😂 So I'm putting on a new bikeyoke this week. My buddy has the new 2023. Same model. And my bike is so much better. Offcorse the upgrades play a part. But I think my bike is good for the next few years.
I’ll agree with you. My 2000 S Brand FSR BigHit wasn’t replaced until 2021 when I bought my 2021 Intense Carbine. I still have the FSR BigHit
Nice 👍
Trek specialized, and others are making their bikes overseas, but they aren't passing that savings on to the consumers. Instead, they price them as if they were made in the USA. Now, they have to compete with companies who are willing to pass that savings on to the consumer.
The more time I spend on the trail, the less I want the newest bike.
I ride an aluminum Giant mtb from 1997 that I picked up for 100 euros last year. Fixed it up myself, all original components. Put some Billy Bonkers tires on there and took it for a short week of bike packing in very rough terrain in south of France. I absolutely had zero issues. No flats. No dropped chains. No derailleur issues. It was amazing. 100 euros. And I had fun riding it.
@@stijndruyts5340 heck yeah man 👍 that’s what it’s all about.
Most People don’t want to ride a bike from 1997 😂
@@deanemberley2333 Very true. Good thing I’m not like most people.
Thank you so much for making this video, you covered off all the points I've been mulling over after considering getting back into mtb'ing after a 3 year break, I still have a xc hardtail and a full sus in the shed, think I'll just get the hardtail serviced and take it from there...
@@steveb8269 heck yeah 👍
I wanted a road bike to do a bike ride with an old highschool buddy but I was unemployed. I picked up a used road bike on Craigslist and bought a few upgrades - saddle, bike computer, extra water bottle cage. It rides great and for 1/3 the cost.
Nice 👍
I could have said this 15, 10 or 5 years ago. I ride a late 90s rigid steel GT w/26" wheels. No problem on any trails I ride with groups or alone. The only maintenance is keeping the chain clean.
Heck yeah! 👍
True. I second that.
YES! I have a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid with 26" wheels. It's still well suited to the kind of riding I do, so I hung on to it. Two, it has CroMo main tubes-'nuff said! My LBS took in an old, used Fuji hardtail in trade, which I bought and I'm having upgraded to have an extra MTB.
Truth be told, I don't really like any of the new MTBs on the market. I'm old school; I still prefer a 3x7 or 3x8 drivetrain vs these new 1x drivetrains. The 3x drivetrains have been used for decades, because they still work; they're solid, proven systems.
Here in Australia, the T90 isn't considered a budget bike. At $4500, it isn't cheap. It's on sale now for a few dollars under $4000.
It’s always hard to define a budget bike. I really push my limits on the trails so buying a T6 or something like that would need a lot of upgrades to handle the riding I do. But I get what you’re saying.
3 years ago I purchased my Trek Rail 5 ebike. It was the only full suspension mtb Trek had on the floor (covid). The best bike purchase i ever made. I love my Trek Rail 5 ebike.
Heck yeah 👍 Stoked for you!
I took my 2019 lowend Specialized Rockhopper to a bike park yesterday. It's a hardtail that I've upgraded with a dropper post and a gas front shock. I was the only person there on a hardtail. I had a lot of fun, but when my buddy that rented a FS bike was leaving, I asked if they'd let me try his rental bike. Wow! What a difference. I get not upgrading to every new thing, but I'm super excited to find a good deal on a FS bike. I'll keep my hardtail for some of the less demanding local trails, but that rear suspension, bigger tires, 1X drivetrain, hydraulic brakes, etc made the trail so much more fun and safe.
@@scorpiondisco5404 definitely keep your Hardtail. There are so many good deals on FS bikes. Check out this one bikesonline-usa.sjv.io/DKvqzq
Was riding my 2011 stumpjumper comp and still loving it. Found a used 2022 Stumpjumper pro with a few scratches for very cheap and it’s incredible. Definitely a huge upgrade. the skill I developed on the old bike lets me take it to the next level with this one.
Nice 👍
Been riding for 30 years…. This is gospel. Buy a bike (aluminum FS for me), ride it for about a decade, upgrade parts as needed, drivetrains and suspension last a long time if kept clean. Oh, shimano is plenty of performance, sram is great stuff, but if you can’t afford it, deore or slx has amazing performance. Also, buy used, can get amazing deals
Some great advice there 👍 SLX for the win. Agree with everything you said.
2020 marin sanquentin 3. Live that bike. Put new wheels and shorter 165 cranks new seat pedals and grips. Also have a 1995 haro v5r. Still ride that old bike one in a while
Agree completely, have a 2016 trek remedy 9.6 29” I got second hand at half price when it was a year old . Made a few upgrades and I still ride it when I’m not on my budget hard tail which I actually prefer to ride more now . I have a Ragley BigAl that I built up from frame only , which is so much fun and I think is making me a better rider . Slowly upgrading both bikes as I can afford to .
Do have to appreciate the guys with tons of money who need the latest and greatest though, it means guys like me can get a used bike or parts at a reasonable price and upgrade. Also find that learning how to service your own bike saves you money but also teaches you how to listen to your bike and have a better understanding of how to make it run smoothly .
💯 👍
Was looking to get back into mtb'ing after my twin boys were spending time at the bike parks. Rented a couple different bikes and ended up with the Ripmo AF. Saved coin and I am enjoying life at 50. Just wish I had half the balls I did back in the day. It takes alot more effort for me to ride like I did back then. But overall I am not selling that bike period. 2500 was enough money. Now the boys will be stepping up with another bike after 3 years on there hardtails. I can tell you this I am scoping Polygon hard as hell. And if some companies start sinking i will buy two more IBIS Ripmo's. Any suggestions out there for twin 9 yo's who are progressing rapidly? Thought about the reaper from Rocky and the Growler jr. Would like to leave them in a hardtail a few more years so they learn to read the bikes characteristics through the trails better before moving them to a bike that does the work for them.
A lot of people praising the Marin Rift Zone, looks like a solid trail bike.
Probably a few floating around used for a good price.
I bought my son a Fuel EX 7, but after doing a recent versus video… I realized that for a lower price I could have got a Polygon T9. I think the T8 or T9 is a great option. But there are so many good bikes these days so look for sales.
I keep bikes for years, but I love working on them, so I am probably guilty of spending too much on upgrades. I only usually do this when parts wear out, or need major service though. Mt suspension is not new, but, thanks to Rockshox selling updated parts, they are pretty up to date internally.
I do move on some of the bigger changes, like 1x drivetrains and I am finally on 29" wheels. I am pretty tall though, so that worked out to be a smart move, for me at least. I bought a used, high(ish) end bike and love it. As it happened, I had no trouble finding the same bike in a smaller size for my wife, who (guess what) also loves it. They are a few years old now, but I don't see anything out there that I could ride better or faster on our local trails. Thanks for the insights.
@@chrisbennett5796 thanks for taking time to leave the comment. Sounds like you’ve got it down 👍
I’ve been wanting to get a steel hardtail for harder trail shredding, I’m starting to hit the limit of capability on my aluminum built up budget trail hardtail. Also have a Marin rift zone Xr full sus which is amazing, but I really love the difference in ride dynamics between the two. Option I’ve been mulling over are the Norco torrent(2021), the bird forge, and the transition trans am. Since the trans am is US based, having it shipped is a lot cheaper than both of the other two. Trying to find used on Pinkbike also.
Used bikes are a great option.
2020 ibis ripmo. Got it dec of 2020. Deore build with DVO sus. Switched to fox factory and carbon wheelset. Got a lot wrapped in it. But not selling anytime soon. Best bike I’ve owned.
Sounds like you got an amazing ride 👍
Trying to upgrade from a 26" hardtail to a full suspension 29er.... and keep the pricetag under $2k but still have good suspension. Hope prices keep coming down a touch more! Siskiu T8 is in the running for sure!
Look at GIANT as well, $1000 off the Trance😳
T8 is a great bike. Used is also an option.
Trails are usually only open a few months out of the year due to extreme weather in my area. That curves the appetite for a new bike purchase every now and then. My main bike is a 9 year old hardtail bought from bikes direct that I have upgraded over time. I also ride a rigid bike and a couple of 90s mountain bikes. It's going to be a good while before a new bike purchase comes my way.
As long as you’re getting out, riding, and having fun.
I was looking for 2x eMTB’s this year, one for me and one for my son. I managed to get new Trek Rails (5 and 9.7) for £4k off retail. I’ve upgraded the tyres and saddles (you mentioned this in the video 😊) and they are perfect 👍🏻
Nice 👍 Some great sale prices this year.
@@JaredHoff -exactly 👍🏻
Worth adding -I was coming from a 2014 Spesh StumpJumper Carbon Evo which still rode perfect. It had Fox Kashima forks & shock and a high spec 1x 10 speed drivetrain. Sure it had 26” wheels but it was amazing to ride, probably just needed a dropper post adding. I sold it on eBay for £700, they got a bargain !
I wanted to keep it but needed the funds for the new bikes 🤣 The only reason to change bikes is due to getting older and fitness dropping away 😬 …and e-bikes generally being more fun to ride 😝
I think bout 2016, there was a lot of new tech like geo, boost, tubeless, shocks, tote sizes 27.5/29...but I still bought a slightly used San Quentin 2 hard tail for $1200 with upgraded Rockshox fork...
@@tigerbalm666 nice
My primary bike is a 2008 Redline monocog 29, yes it is heavily upgraded.
Just bought a new bike this year though. 2024 Surly Krampus.
Both are fully rigid and do just fine for the trails I ride.
Nice 👍 I’ve always wanted to try a riding mountain bike, but it would do good on the type of trails I ride most.
I bought a Canyon Spectral AL5 last year for 2k worried it would be "meh", but it's been nothing but amazing. I swapped the grips and got a STFU on the chainstay and assegai upfront. The bike is fantastic. I'm doing everything from XC to enduro/dh on it and it just doesn't flinch. 100% agree with your point.
Heck yeah 👍
I got the Spectral 125 AL6 in '22, and it's been amazing as well. I do wonder if I shouldn't have gone for the longer travel Spectral, though. The carbon models had some amazing sale prices around that time.
i am new to Hydraulic brakes, can you somewere, let the brake brake more or looser it a bit? i mean you cant pump in more fluid then fits.. , can not tighten or loosen it so it's not touching my pads anymore? i got the magura mt5-estop
You have to use the correct bleed block when you bleed the brakes to make sure the pistons are spread apart enough for your rotors. When I first started I took my bike to the local bike shop and asked if I could watch how they bled my brakes and asked for advice on issues I was having with my brakes. A lot of it is trial and error. RUclips videos help, but there’s nothing like having a mechanic show you first hand.
I dunno... I bought a Pike Ultimate for my 2021 ProCal 9.7 and it absolutely was a difference maker. The fork is smooth and enables me - at an older age - to do sections I could not do on a Recon.
Heck yeah 👍 sounds like you got a great setup!
I have 2007 Gary Fisher Tassajara disc. It fits me and my riding style very well. I bought into the 29” the next year and bought a 2008 Felt Nine Elite. I think was the only year for the aluminum Felt Nines, they made the CF frames in 2009. I don’t like it nearly as much as the Tassy.
@@Sechott12 you got a classic MTB 👍
I ride a 2020 Giant ATX converted to an ebike using a CYC Photon, upgrading to Linkglide ATX drivetrain, hydraulic brakes, dropper post, and some decent rubber. I enjoyed the build, and enjoying riding green, blue and black bike park trails. I can't go as fast, or do the big launches, but still having fun on a bike a third of the price, and riding back up to the trail head is enjoyable on an ebike.
@@mickp10 nice 👍
Purchased a 2019 Breezer Lightning Pro used and I love it. Doesn't have the slackest headtube angle but comes well speed even in 2024.
Heck yeah 👍 That’s what it’s all about
I'm going to get the new stumpy evo alloy elite but I waited for it to be on sale and literally getting it due to needing more travel for the trails I ride, but I do agree I bought my previous Kona process 134 second hand and built it up with solid parts. From working in the bike industry for a few years I do feel 6k (in Australia) is pretty much the max you need to spend to get something that can do everything really well
Stoked that you found a good price on that specialized 👍
I have a Scott Aspect fx 25 full suspension 26" I bought 2nd hand in 2011. It's been great and I still ride it. But like you say modern geometry and 29" wheels make a difference. I tested against my neighbours Merida 96.800. Basically by your terms a budget bike. Not new a 2021 with 2 x 10. I ride xc and marathon. On the same 51km trail my average speed is 3kph faster on the newer bike. Doesn't sound like a lot but on a 3hr ride that's a 9km lead. I am upgrading this week to a Titan Cypher dash 120. A South African bike. Has all the modern geometry but at half the cost of an imported bike. I can't wait.
Nice 👍 stoked for you. Sounds like you’ve done your research and are getting the perfect bike for the riding you do.
If you had $1500 or so, what hardtail would you buy? I’ve looked at Rockhoppers and a Timberjack. Thanks for your time.
@@davidcooper574 I don’t ride hardtails, but they have some good deals these days.
Bought my Cube Race Emtb second hand for £3k in the UK, upgraded parts mostly second hand as and when I felt the need. I put some Rockshox Domain 38’s on a little heavier but hardly noticeable when riding. My opinion, you get far more satisfaction building your bike this way, and still under prices with specs not as good as what I’ve built. You look on for example Facebook marketplace loads of sellers doing I think what this vlog is about, they’re nuts …………. Money to burn me thinks ! Great vlog love the content 👏🏽
Thank you for taking time to leave the feedback 👍 Appreciate you!
I still ride my sweet 2017 Nicolai ION16 in Mullet setup. My bike pretty much dialed to my ride and my local trail, and I don't feel like I need a new bike. Possibly change a newer component when some of them fail. Possibly change to RXF38 over EXT Era v.1
There’s something special about getting a bike perfectly dialed in 👍
Hi good video, I’m buying a second hand hard trail because it will be lighter and easy to matain. But I’m 65 unfit and over 17 stone , I thought I would go in my car to a canal and ride the gentle canal toe paths , I’m really scared of trying to get fit , any advice would greatly appreciate please?
@@MsDenver2 My advice would be to go to a local bike shop and have them fit you for a bike so you know the right size. You don’t have to buy form them, just test some bikes and figure out the size and type of bike you want.
Then you’ll know the size and you’ll have a general idea of the type of bike (commuter, XC, Trail etc.) that you want.
With that info you’ll be ready to search for a good used bike.
i currently have a santa cruz nomad v5 but i am looking at the 2025 nicolai G1 frame .
to be honest i've really gotten my nomad dialed , it feels so plush and good now ....but there something about that G1 goshhhhh
I've got 2019 Identiti AKA and just upgrade parts as I improve or if something breaks. But don't see me changing anytime soon cos the bike I have does everything I need it to.
That’s the best way you can go about upgrading
I have and old gt sensus 2012 ive upgraded the brakes and the drivetrain but besides from that it shreds
@@Edwardbarker-q1o heck yeah 🤘
Couldn’t agree more mate. My last bike was a high spec full suss that I’d lusted after for years. It replaced my tatty Marin hardtail that was the most fun I’d ever had on a bike. I sold that full susser and haven’t ridden for years. Just recently remembered the fun of a mid priced fairly simple bike and have been getting the itch to ride again. Definitely not looking for the latest greatest bike this time around. Just wanna have fun.
Having fun and riding is what it’s all about 👍
I agree and not in that same time. If you are buying a Trek, Specialize bike, the new model in the middle of the season is insane. If you choose that same bike in the winter is 40-50% less! If you choose the previous gen prices are low. On the end you have better customer service/warranty than the online brands. Is your decision, sometimes just worth to wait. The other think is probably 90% of us are over bike. We have a nice sus bike but can't setup them. Or not changing setup for different condition. Paying for Enduro racing equipment doing XC
Yup. You make a lot of good points.
YES! I have a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid with 26" wheels. It's still well suited to the kind of riding I do, so I hung on to it. Two, it has CroMo main tubes-'nuff said! My LBS took in an old, used Fuji hardtail in trade, which I bought and I'm having upgraded to have an extra MTB. I ride streets, bike paths, canal trails, gravel hardpack, and the occasional, unexplored, yet inviting, meadow. What more do I need to do that?
Truth be told, I don't really like any of the new MTBs on the market. I'm old school; I still prefer a 3x7 or 3x8 drivetrain vs these new 1x drivetrains. The 3x drivetrains have been used for decades, because they still work; they're solid, proven systems. If I could get a nice, new, and modern double boinger with a 3x8 drivetrain, I'd be TOTALLY STOKED!
Heck yeah man! Sounds like you’ve got everything you need already 👍
@@JaredHoff yes!
Great point! I ride my scott genius 950 from 2020. I upgraded it when I bought it from sram NX to XT 1x12 and XT brakes and bike still works great. There is no need to change it for something “new and more modern”.
Definitely 👍 People always talk about price of upgrades and how you could have bought a new bike… BUT there’s something special about upgrading your bike and making it exactly how you want.
@@JaredHoff I agree 100%
I'm looking to buy a full carbon f/s to reduce the weight from my current bike by about 13lbs. Imagine lugging 13 extra pounds around over 40 miles and 4k of climbing. I like your thinking though. I also have a 33lb hardtail that doubles as a gravel/road bike that i love and am keeping. Swapping out wheels and tires is like having a new bike configuration every week if i want.
@@GrantSpoon wheels and tires makes all the difference 👍
Well, I went on the bike buying journey over the winter. I had a trek roscoe 6 2022 version. So it had the old 141mm dropout spacing and steep geo numbers and a short reach. I upgraded that bike and used it more so out of its range of intended use. I found myself leaning towards the enduro style of riding. It really was a great bike but I wanted to find something with 29er wheels and much slacker and stick with a hardtail. But I won’t pay retail. So that means Facebook marketplace. I found a brand new Commencal Meta HT AM Race Edition for 2300. I offered the guy 1800 and he took it! So I was over the moon to say the least. It was an XL size and commencal reach numbers are odd so I rode it 8 times and realized it wasn’t the bike for me. So I stripped the frame, sold it, kept all the awesome components and bought a kona honzo esd frameset. I built it up and it is honestly the best bike I’ve ever owned. But I have to say, no I agree, the bike you have won’t make you a better rider BUT in my personal experience with this Kona so far, it makes me want to push out of my comfort zone for sure. It just wants to go and it’s like I have owned it for years! Climbs amazing and descends even better!!! I can’t get enough of it! So for me selling the commencal frame and buying the kona esd frame was a wash so at the end of the day I spent 1800.00 on the epic bike I’ve ever had! You should look up the geo charts on this one, I’m sure you’d get a kick out of it!
There’s something special about getting the bike that’s just right for the type of riding you do 👍 Stoked for you!
Thanks man!! So stoked!
I purchased a Canyon Stoic last year for $1,000 US. Not stoked on the components but I have so many parts from previous bikes after upgrades. DVO Onyx fork, handlebars from my Vitus Mythique, an AXS derailleur I had on another bike etc. So I have a capable HT for local trails and greenway riding. I did buy some less aggressive tires (Rekon Race) so the bike is much faster for the places I ride.
Sounds like you’ve got an amazing bike. Stoked for you!
Jared! Another great video. My issue is that I feel my bike is a bit too large for me. So I’m thinking of downsizing to a Medium instead of a Large. That’s the only reason I’m debating a new bike. I agree with you, a new T9 is hard to beat spec wise. Some crazy deals on the used bike market too. Think I’m going to continue to ride my T8 until fall. Then survey the bike landscape.
Getting the right size bike makes a huge difference. I used to ride a size large. Then finally went to an XL and love it 🤘
I got a mountainpeak evo mtb, a Taiwan made bike last 2017 and until now I'm still riding that bike. Little by little I upgraded the old parts. I'm still enjoying riding my bike even if it is already a 7 year old bike.
Heck yeah. That’s the best way to upgrade 👍
Old bike was a 2021 Drt 2.1 upgraded to wireless shifting with archer componets d1x trail. just bought a 2023 Trek Fuel Ex8 and having a blast on it proably didnt need such a nice bike I just noticed at certain price points you either get good supspension or good drivetrain not both until you hit a certain price.
I always hate the way Trek Specs there bikes making you spend so much to get everything you want,,, but I still think Trek makes a great bike. Miss my Trek Slash and my Fuel EX that I traded in for my son’s bike.
I'm aluminum hardtail all the way. Shimano Deore, BSA threaded bb, boost spacing, proper frame geometry for what I'm using it for, and I'm good to go from there. Everything else can be changed later if needed and components are cheap. I'd spend the savings on a premium custom wheelset if I really felt the need to do anything.
Specialized Chisel right now under $1000 in Chicago
BMC Twostroke AL $599-$750
Orbea Alma H20 under $1000 @ Jenson
Trek Procaliber 6 - ~$1600 new
Scott Scale
Check for barely used in Buycycle, Facebook, Craigslist, other. Never pay full retail.
Stupid me I got caught up in the hype being new to MTB and bought a 2022 Trek Top Fuel 9.8 XT - and spent 5.6k rip off - the local bike store saw a sucker walking in and unloaded their inventory. 😤 love your videos!
Don’t regret that bike purchase man. You’ve got an amazing bike there. The Top Fuel is a great bike.
Just know that you don’t need to trade it in when Trek releases the next version.
@@JaredHoff thanks 🙏 for the vote of confidence!! I plan on doing just that AFTER I put bike wrap. Thanks to you. 😂
My main two bikes are a 2008 Norco Ryde One 25 and a 23Norco fluid FS A4. I would like the new Norco Sight but it's out on my price range
Sounds like you’ve got some amazing bikes already. No need to buy something new. Unless you can find an unbeatable price that you can afford.
Im currently riding a 2014 Scott scale 960 as my summer rig. I got it for dirt cheap. I put better tires, a dropper post, better pedals and a few other small things. I ride all of our single-track trails in the area. We have about 80 miles of single track that wind all over the woods between 2 towns. Last year, i rode my salsa muklukk all winter and all summer. Fully rigid fat bike. I loves it. I did not want to spend thousands of dollars for a summer rig. This hard tail 10 year bike works amazing! I gotta work and "dance" a little more on the techy downhill than my buddies with full suspension. But i can still hang. Maybe some day ill buy a new bike. Good video, i liked it a lot
Thanks 👍
Am riding a spectral cf9 from 2019. I bought it retail for 1/4 of the new price. Since I’ve wrecked some items on it, the bike pretty much has been downgraded slowly since I can’t feel the difference between x01 and gx gearing for instance. But even though it still has some awesome nice parts like the codes rsc, carbon wheels, etc etc.
I’m happy with the bike, if I were to swap it out for something else, I’d reckon it to sell for approximately the same price as when I bought it.
And if I wanted to swap it out my ONLY thing I’m regretting is that it runs 27,5” instead of 29ers.
Heck yeah sounds like you’re making all the right choices. I prefer 29” as well but it’s not the end of the world and 27.5 has a lot of advantages as well.
@@JaredHoff indeed it does, biggest one to me is the nimbleness it carries as a 27,5 since I’m running size large it helps around tight corners. I actually tried placing a 29” on the front with my current fork, and it could actually work out. Since the geo is of older age and the headtube isn’t as slack as many newer bikes it would be something to explore, if i feel the need for a change
Rocking 1999 fuji 26" with front rockshox. 👌🏼 paid less than $100 used at the time. Crazy steal.. 24 years later still going strong.😊
@@fairlady350 heck yeah 👍
I ride 2020 Polygon N9 and I'm just riding it mostly stock. I had to change 1 component and I think this is prob the only component that's really behind compare to expensive bikes. Brakes. My hands are pretty small and those budget brake levers are just too long and too far away from handlebar. Other than that, it's pretty amazing.
Heck yeah! Love my N9 👍🤘
You have a good point bro. I have a 2018 Ibis Ripmo and the geometry and components are still great and allow me to shred. Not to mention very reliable still. Like the saying goes, “don’t buy upgrades, ride up grades.”
Word 👍
My current bike is a Trinx c782 HT 27.5(I know I'm in Asia), currently working on the upgrades for 1x10 Deore Drive Train, and is currently sporting the SR Suntour Epixon with 140mil travel.
Nice 👍
I'm new to MTB. Wanted something affordable to get me started on strolls in the countryside with wife and kids, on easy cross-country trails. Picked the Cannondale Trail 5, cost me 450 eur where I live. Equipped with Shimano Deore M4100 groupset (no MicroShift here) and Tektro M275 brakes (instead of Shimano M201). Got it on sales at 50% off, paid 450eur. Being shipped, looking forward to it, feeling like a kid at Xmas 😊. Should be good enough for the use I'll make of it. And who knows, maybe the start of a new hobby.
@@Nexus.Achiles heck yeah 👍
Great video! I've been guilty of drooling over new bikes each year. I stopped doing that recently and have focused more on component quality. More expensive and newer bikes have never translated into me being a better rider. On a separate note, how is your son enjoying his new rig? I was really moved by the fact you sold your gen 6 to give your son a better bike. As a father, I love that you think the way I do and sacrifice for your kids. You have convinced me to subscribe to the channel with that story.
Son is still loving the EX7. Thanks for the sub 👍
I currently have a trek marlin 5. After about 2 years and 1500 miles on it I know a little better what I'm looking for in terms of an upgrade, guess that's why I'm looking.
@@augustopinochet2495 sounds like you put some good miles on it. There are a ton of great deals right now.
Why do chains corrode so quickly? Is tin being added to the alloy to speed up corrosion and increase wear rate?
I can say specifically. I keep my chains clean and try to take care of them as best I can.
Keeping along the same lines of budget- I really think you should try to review Marzocchi suspension products. They’re affordably priced and have the same internal components as Fox!
That’s a great point 👍 thanks for the feedback
My first mtb 2024 polygon n9 on sale 2999.99 bought it a month ago n itll last me yrs its fun 1 thing im having issues with tho is my dropper post its so hard to press and there are no info on how to set it up n make it smooth like my friends bikes
Try adjusting the cable- tighter or looser. Also try putting fork lube on the sliding part of the dropper post. They have seals just like suspension forks and the seal can dry up and stick. Mine kept getting stuck at the top and wouldn’t drop. I took it apart and lubed the cable attachment mechanism on the bottom of the post but it didn’t help. Eventually tried messing with the cable tension and got it moving proper again. Good luck man hope this helps.
New dropper post lever. I hate the stock levers. That plus the stuff mentions below will help.
I just built up a 2017 Sworks Epic nos frame. Xt 12 speed and a fox 32 stepcast. 25.2 lbs with pedals for $2800.
You got and amazing bike man 👍
Absolutely.. I have incrimentally upgraded the hell out of my 2016 Trek Feul EX8 and am still super happy with it. If you have a good frameset and suspension as a base.. upgrade away !
@@g.fortin3228 for sure 👍
Got a 2022 Rocky mountain Slayer A30 here. Modified it
I dont see myself buying anything new in a very long time.
Also polygon is an awesome company they make very good bang for buck.
Thanks for sharing. Slayer looks like a super fun bike to ride. Some Carson Storch vibes 🤘
My bike is an '' budget custom built hardcore hardtail 160mm and some 27.5 front and back.
I put those big forks to suit better my riding style and the newer geo and it rides super well
Heck yeah 👍 sounds like you’ve got an amazing ride bro!
I don't own a mtn Bike yet, just been looking around and might go with the Polygon xtrada 7. Used bikes right now cost just about as much as a brand new one that's on sale right now (idk why).
@@A-meen-Fisher Heck yeah man! Stoked for you. You’ll love riding 👍
Built myself a Chromag steel hardtail back in 2021 when the market was going crazy and sold my 4 year old Giant Trance for what I paid..I can pretty much ride anything with the hardtail and if I really want to electrify it for steep long climbs I can look at one of those elevate motors from Bimotal
Heck yeah 👍
Could agree more, it's not helped by certain cycling channels that are that heavily sponsored by bike manufacturers they may as well sell the things.
Word 👍
right now i ride Trek Remedy 8 2021 its pretty good bike but those 27.5 inch wheels just cant used to them want to buy some polygon bike but there is no dealers here in slovenia
Keep the Remedy 👍 You don’t need a new polygon. Get stoked! Go ride! Have fun!
I’m fighting this in XC racing. I’m a hobby racer on a base level aluminum BMC Two Stroke hardtail. But what if I was on a carbon full suspension?!😆 It’s always that “what if” thought. But I don’t race enough to own a $5K or more race bike…
I hear ya. I always seem to spend way too much on my bikes. I’m loving these Polygon bikes and that’s kind of what sparked this video.
My issue is finding one mtb for everything. I had an epic evo then went to stumpy evo and now I want the new epic evo. I don’t ride harsher trails like I thought I would, moved, have less access to mtb in general. We will see. I upgraded to axs transmission etc too. Nice thing is I can sell the bike as stock and now buy a lesser model or frame and put what I already own on the new bike.
Good points 👍
I live in the City My bike got replace was the Specialized 2014 with Specialized 2022 X3.0 which in compare big difference actually the 7 months of the year I bike most everywhere Dr Apointments, Grocery stores, etc..My point spending those $ 700 to the new bike its well worth it. BTW the b. bycicle sales of used bikes its not worked for me $ 1000 used Specialized 3.0.? Anyway Good Vid!
Thanks for leaving the comment. Sounds like you got the right bike man. Stoked for you!
I totally agree with what you are saying. It really depends what you define as a budget bike though too. Personally, I don’t consider your bike a budget bike. Looking at your link it was well over $2K! I saw a video a few days ago with Sam Pilgrim. He purchased a £50 bike from Amazon, I think it was, and rode it to death, looked like he had great fun too. Now that’s a budget bike! Maybe 500 bucks is a budget mtb, that’s what I paid, years ago from my first one. 2K certainly is not!
I hear ya! I’ve always been scared to ride cheap bikes. I think a lot of RUclipsrs do that for clicks, but I don’t think those cheap Amazon bikes will last for years the way a $2,000 budget bike would.
Both of my bike I got the frames from eBay 2012 mongoose Canaan elite and ns eccentric 27.5 and built them up with a mix of budget parts and quality parts .
I’ve always wanted to do a full frame-up build. Stoked for you 👍
Got a 2020 trek fuel ex8 discounted and it does a great job, just spent about $500 on major service and parts.
I'll ride that bike untill it breaks 😊
Heck yeah 👍
This has to be one of the best MTB channels online. Yeah I got ripped off with a 2017; Cannondale 29er FSi about 18 months ago
And man if I would have only RESEARCHED a few videos like THIS CHANNEL and put that $800 towards a used 27.5 FS polygon or Talon One or Two I would have easily saved another $500.
The first thing I did after Zelling $800 to some bike dude in Delray ... Jammed up 95 N straight to REI in Gardens
And then bam ... without even realizing ... I felt prey to the MOD BUG ... no clue what I was doing ... Mindlessly charged
another $200 on thinner profile hybrid tires with that Kevlar lining , added a riser stem ? Had the techs check DR tuning
and replace the fork lockout cable .
Of course none of these details have anything to do with your channel or my RIDING ability of the bike performance , however I
think you've touched on some RAW nerves 😅 and the impossibility of keeping up with the titanium frame bros.
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@@Juno_Beach thank you for the awesome comment. I greatly appreciate it 👍
Marin San Quinten 2 XL year 2021 and only put bigger brakes 👌
👍
I’ve been riding my 2015 Norco Range for 9 years. It’s just as good today as the day I bought it. Still love it!
Nice 👍
Definitely agree. It seems like bikes are all at a great place for geometry and angles so they havent changed much, now everyone is trying to find something new to attract people to upgrade. Im sure high pivots feel nice but it seems like change for the sake of change.
That being said, i ditched my fox 36 rythm for a 38 factory and it was worth every penny for the performance benefits. I dont see value in changing to a new brake because it look 'stealthy', but some things can be beneficial if they add to the fun.
For sure 👍
I went for a Trek Roscoe 9 with some upgrades. It's replacing a 1999 Gary Fisher Pro Caliber running 26ers and V brakes. So Yes! The Roscoe 9 is massively more capable on all trails and only gives up a little top speed on the groomed single track
👍 29” wheels vs 26 probably makes a huge difference
Vitus nucleus 27.5 - love it, added dropper post and bomber forks
Heck yeah!
I can afford all the new stuff but have so much fun on my 2019 trek remedy that I don’t even bother. Best upgrades:
1) Carbon handlebar
2) Cushcore
3) Maxxis tires
4) Grips
3) Extra pawls in the rear hub
@@Nicool333 heck yeah 👍
My trail bike is 7 years old and I have no desire to get the new new. I keep up with my friends that ride the new Ibis, Santa Cruz, and Treks. 🤷🏻
Word 👍
Currently I'm on a 2020 YT jeffsy, absolutely love it only complain I have is Rocks sometimes get caught up in the linkage and you can only imagine what that does, I've been eyeing the new yt jeffsy but I definitely don't need it but I want it😢😅
Jeffsy is an amazing bike. I had a 2020 YT Capra and regret getting rid of it 😔
You are 100% right on everything you said, great vid.
Here is the challenge, people don't buy bikes because they need a new bike or think it's going to make them better....it's because they want a new bike....I'm a recreational mountain biker, I may buy a bike one every 5 years, just because it's usually beaten up from wipe out.
I compete in archery, every year I buy a new bow, do I need one, nope, but I want one and will buy one
You make a great point. It’s drill a lot of fun to buy a new bike and gets you stoked to go ride.
I hope you have broaden your archery experience with adding traditional bows to your hobbies, especially a handmade one but that too has gotten expensive. I'm not a craftsman but I love making my own unique arrows and it is fun. I went ten years shooting before I picked up traditional and I missed out for a long time and I don't like seeing others missing out, but of course it's not for everyone. Thought I would mention it in case you haven't considered it and might be interested in it. It's like biking, totally different experience like downhill, XC, road, BMX, gravel, doing it all never let's burnout sneak in. I love compound, recurve and longbow and I never get tired of shooting or riding.
I got a Kona "precept" 150. Got in 2017 so nearly 10 years ago on sale for $1500 and it rips. Has all the features and takes me everywhere, so I don't know why I would need to upgrade. Admittedly, I spend most my time on the motocross track so I'm barely a mountain biker. If I was, I probably would have a nicer bike lol.
Sounds like you got the perfect ride 👍
Its 75% rider 25% bike. A good bike for the type of terrain you ride can make a difference in speed and also maybe not blow up as easily, but besides that its rider. Also lower spec bikes are just as good if the geo is good and decent shocks/wheels. the rest doesnt matter. I grabbed a 2023 norco range vlt a2 for almost 50% off and its been absolutely killer. its an extremely capable dh oriented ebike. I blew up the rear wheel in about 5 rides so had to replace that, and just some different brake pads/rotors, added a 190mm airshaft to the rockshox zeb for 60 bucks and that was pretty much it. The higher spec range didn't have shocks or components I wanted anyway so the lower spec was actually the better option for me. The fox 38 only goes to 180mm and I wanted 190mm, and the fox dhx 2 is prone to blowing up in a horizontal yoke position that the range has. So the lower spec with rockshox was better.
Definitely 👍 a lot of good points there. Thanks for taking time to drop a comment.
Hi.. I ride a Yt Capra 2016.. it is fantastic- It does everything well. I have upgraded to a 1x Sram Eagle Gx and it is really solid. I also bought a Ragley mmmbop last year (hardtail) just to mix my riding up a bit and this is also a cracking bike only cost £1000 and it smashes all downhill Xc the lot. I also wanted 2 bikes in case one needed repairing so I wouldn't lose any bike time.. my friend has a Trek ebike (£8000) but I still keep up with him he is having to do more repairs than me too.. I.e loss of Power more services etc.. I will be honest I could make do with my £1000 Ragley it does everything well and is little maintenance the parts are cheap. It is not the bike it is the skill of the rider.
Definitely the rider not the bike. I think an e-bike makes for a great second bike but it would never replace my non-electric pedal bike.
The only bicycle tech/kit I'm most interested in having if I had the money are the Pinion-belt drives for non-e bikes.
Those are definitely interesting
I enjoy these videos. I would however maybe go into further detail perhaps explaining the different benefits and detractors of each “type” of bike
Example: price difference for component spec approx / warranty processes between dealer structure and consumer direct - things like this factor in a lot when looking at new bikes. You also mentioned used and I’d push for that option too but things like knowing what you might encounter if a warranty was needed (ie is original warranty transferable or not etc)
These types of things also factor into many people’s decisions when buying a bike and are often overlooked in videos such as these.
But none the less keep up the cool work, I do enjoy your channel a lot !
Thanks for the feedback 👍 I really appreciate you taking time to leave a detailed comment.
2018 diamondback release 5c. Still killing it.
Heck yeah 👍
Absolutely 💯% spot on 😎👍🏾
Thanks 👍
Polygon has a FB page dedicated to broken frame issues and how to deal with the customer service problems
I ride ebike (Reign E+1) and DH bike (Propain Rage - Fox40 and spring) - there are more expensive bikes, but I am really happy and I cant imagine that some higher end specs bike make me better rider....
Sounds like you’ve got a couple amazing bikes 👍 No need to change that.
@@JaredHoff nope, I am really happy, local trails on ebike, bikeparks on DH :)
I have 2018 Propain Tyee Aluminium with Sram GX, Magura MT5 , Formula Selva Fork , 27.5 DT Swiss 1900 Wheelset. I always kind of get attracted to the new Bikes like a moth to a streetlight. But after a while of thinking , i don't think i would appreciate it much - because no real improvements have been made - The only upgrade I would think of at the moment with 190cm height is a 29er bike. But I can really wait !
Sounds like you’ve got an amazing ride.
I’m going to talk about your bike and the upgrades you did in one of my next videos. It’s a great example of exactly what I’m talking about.
R&D in mtb is so far behind other sports. It’s still a young sport. So there is a lot of development still happening every year. If you are a dedicated rider and your motor is dialed you’ll likely benefit from what new bikes and tech have to offer. Been riding over thirty years. Big into trail building too. Love dh. Love SS. I don’t think a good rider needs the “best” but newer stuff rides quite a bit better. These newer bikes are high performance machines and most bikers can’t outride their bike, so I mostly agree with this video. Most riders would, instead of buying upgrades, should build upgrades with proper diet and deadlifts.