I started with the initial thought of being able to spend around $400 for a good bike.
After I started shopping and learning I realized that while I could get a decent starter bike that I would wish I had gotten more.
Long story short, I ended up with a Rockhopper Expert. I got a good deal on it new at $900 (msrp @ $1100)
Get the best bike you can afford. It will last longer and hold up to any abuse you give it. And, if you do get into riding more than you initially think it will perform better than a lower entry level.
I really consider my rockhopper expert to be upper middle entry level. It has a nice selection of components and an ok fork.
All the bikes you listed have decent frames... it is really the components that keep the price down.
If those bikes are all you are considering right now then basically ride them all and pick the one that fits the best and meets your needs.
You are not going to a ride a bike that does not fit you well so make sure you get that right.
After I started shopping and learning I realized that while I could get a decent starter bike that I would wish I had gotten more.
Long story short, I ended up with a Rockhopper Expert. I got a good deal on it new at $900 (msrp @ $1100)
Get the best bike you can afford. It will last longer and hold up to any abuse you give it. And, if you do get into riding more than you initially think it will perform better than a lower entry level.
I really consider my rockhopper expert to be upper middle entry level. It has a nice selection of components and an ok fork.
All the bikes you listed have decent frames... it is really the components that keep the price down.
If those bikes are all you are considering right now then basically ride them all and pick the one that fits the best and meets your needs.
You are not going to a ride a bike that does not fit you well so make sure you get that right.
