[Juancts]

I’m on the market for a new 29er. A new bike with the specs I want it’s gonna cost me around $1,900.

I’ve found a few used 29ers in my local classifieds from $400 to $600 (depending on the year and make).

Would you buy a new bike or “build” one out of a used frame ??

My desired specs are:

Alum frame (don’t really need carbon)
1x11 crank
Hydraulic brakes
Rocksock fork

Thanks for your help !

 

[Forest Rider]

Have you sourced the components you wish to run?
Calculate the costs.
Do you want a pretty decent fork -$1000 on the high side.
Do you have the knowledge to assemble all the parts yourself?

Does the cost-effective used frame offer the geometry you are after vs the $1900 bike you are comparing against?

Just a few things to consider is all.

Oh, check out a website called Pros Closet. Or something to that affect. Good bargains can be had there if you keep you eye on what they have available.

 

[GeorgeTaz]

It depends, are you looking for a hardtail or a full suspension, then are you looking for a trail oriented bike, or a full xc bike.

If your looking for a good xc bike then check out the rockshox chisel comp. It has everything your looking for,
- shimano slx 1x11
- rockshox judy gold 100mm fork
- aluminum frame
- shimano mt brakes

Priced at 1600, it would end up right at the top of your budget.

If you know how to build a bike then I would do that, because you would be able to pick the parts you would want.

Not sure on used bikes, I check classifieds a lot but always buy new, just my choice.

 

[sgltrak]

My preference has always been to buy a good quality used bike and upgrade parts as needed or desired, but I don't care about having the latest geometry or parts and I have a background as a bike shop mechanic for several years.

Last summer I bought a good quality steel hardtail for $300 (original retail was $2100 when it was new 11 years ago) and the only changes I made were to the rider contact points. I have put 1200 miles of trails on it in 11 months, and even set a few PRs on it.