Quote Originally Posted by SSS View Post
So does anyone have any opinions, advise, or whatever else on waht brand or specific bike would be a good entry level bike? I would like to stay under 1000 for a hardtail bike. Thanks
The replies you've received are spot on...hopefully I can add to that pertaining to brands and type.

Brands are like Chevy vs. Ford - as long as you're in a local bike shop, you're gonna get a decent bike regardless of brand.

Good entry-level 29" hardtail from Specialized:
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/...cname=Mountain

A 29" hardtail from Giant:
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/....2/7366/44092/

You can find Specialized at Healthy Habits in Bettendorf and Giant at Bike & Hike in Rock Island. Both shops are knowledgable and very helpful.

I'm in the school that the 29" hardtail may be the best machine for the trails in our area. However, this is nearly as much personal preference as anything so do some research on your own to help you decide what would work best for your son.

Like most have said before me, upgrades with bikes are nearly endless - in possibilities and cost - so spending a bit more up front can go a long way.

Good luck and way to make your son's Christmas morning an awesome one!