[rcmay]

I am looking to buy my first 29er. I have a 2010 SJ FSR that I ride now, but I'd like a 29er to ride as well. I am leaning heavily towards a steel hardtail with XC style geometry. My price range is going to be $1800-1500. My top pick right now would be a Salsa El Mariachi

 

[Gumbi4Prez]

Used inner mcr-sir9? Riding buddy has an el mar. Solid bike.

 

[gregnash]

Could also look at the Karate Monkey or the On-One Inbred. Also depends if you are looking to buy or build.

 

[cjsb]

Salsa El Mariachi 2 Review

You may have found your winner

 

[tehllama]

Mariachi sounds like the ticket - if you find the right used one those are a deal, but considering who buys them you've got to be aware of what you're looking at for used ones - most are getting sold because they're underused, but the ones that get really ridden aren't much worse.

 

[2m2hs]

I have an El Mar. Love it. Highly recommend it, especially over similarly priced aluminum bikes from the Big 3.

 

[single-trac-mind]

Karate monkey +1

 

[rcmay]

Is it a complete bike? Got any pictures?