Mountain Bike Forums

Hi All,

I am new to biking, and currently looking for a cheap yet half decent bike (if such a thing exists). Initially I am only looking @ around the £200 price, until I know that this hobby is definately for me. At that price, I guess I am best looking at secondhand.  I guess I will be looking for a bike for road and trails (eg. Delamere Forest, North Wales, etc).

I have been offered a GT Chucker for £80. The model is a 2006 1.0. I have looked around at reviews and this bike appears to be a dirt jump bike, but some reviews also suggest it would be suitable for road use also (although I believe it only has 16 gears).

My question is really is the GT Chucker a good bike for my needs and at that price, or do I need to look at buying a secondhand Specialized, etc model?

Any help or advise would be very gratefully received....

PS. By the way I am in my early 30’s, 5” 8 - would the Chucker be suitable for me anyway? (some reviews states suitable for age 12+???). Thanks

I suggest the Ridgeback MX terrain (i think!) it can be found on the JD Cycles website, its a fairly nice bike, lightweight and affordable. If a mountain bike isnt for you, i suggest a hybrid type, as they are good for small trails and give decent performance on roads.

S :D

Hi IGS

I know it’s easy for me to say, but try and spend as much as you can. I’d have said if you think you are going to ride alot then spend at least £500. This brings you into the territory of bikes that can be serviced properly and will last much much longer than a £200 machine. eg. You will find cheaper bikes are quite a bit heavier than a more expensive bike and this can have a huge impact on your overall enjoyment of riding. After all nipping up a little step on a trail is hard, and it is much easier on a lighter bike. £500 bikes are designed for keen enthusiasts, the wheels are stronger and they often have good components fitted as standard, meaning you don’t have to upgrade later. You get a better deal buying a built bike rather than a cheap one and upgrades.

Look for a hardtail (i.e. not full suspension) and disc brakes. Maybe also look out for end of season bikes if you are on a tight budget and buy last years colours - might save a few quid if it doesn’t bother you.

Enjoy!
Johnny

Igs - 10 August 2008 08:14 PM

I have been offered a GT Chucker for £80. The model is a 2006 1.0. I have looked around at reviews and this bike appears to be a dirt jump bike, but some reviews also suggest it would be suitable for road use also (although I believe it only has 16 gears).

My question is really is the GT Chucker a good bike for my needs and at that price, or do I need to look at buying a secondhand Specialized, etc model?

If you are riding forests, then it probably won’t be suitable, the frames are very small and suited to jumps not forest tracks.

Thanks for the updates guys, really appreciate your input.

I will take a trip down to a decent bike shop and up my budget..

Thanks again..

selling GT aggressor xc2 if you’re interested they’re £400 new. looking for about £200

Where are you located and how old is the bike?

cheers