Want to start MTB - need some advice from the veterans

[heinreich]

Call it a midlife crisis, call it boredom, call it too much time and money (definitely not those two).
YouTube randomly linked one or two Redbull Hardline and related videos one night and I am seriously hooked.

Now, I'm not looking to compete or anything, just casual stuff. But there seems to be a shitload ways I can do myself in; buying too cheap, spending too much, buying the incorrect one.

So, anyone here (Carb) that does MTB and can tell me where to start?
Also, anyone in Jhb that can suggest some nice places/routes to spend a Saturday/Sunday?

I see the bike prices (on bikehub) range from R2k - 120k (or more). But let's start with R10k and see what I can get? After that I'll need some protective gear (helmet and other?) as well as shoes (or can I use my tekkiess?)

Any and all advice/pointers welcome

 

[storms1]

morning, i only know of Rietvlei farm, Jhb south

Rietvlei Trails​

Rietvlei Trails are located on a beautiful farm called Rietvlei Zoo Farm, proudly located in the South of Johannesburg, and offers Hiking, Walking, Running, Cross-Country and Mountain Biking activities.

Rietvlei Trails are OPEN daily from 6am to 6pm, under strictly Covid 19 procedures and rules.
NO large events are allowed AND a mask or buff must be worn in public spaces at all times.
All riders to register & sign indemnity at Rietvlei Trails Lapa/Entrance Gate.
All trails are marked with signs and distances.
Trailers to keep a 1.5m social distancing at all times.

MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAILS
Rietvlei Trails has a choice of FOUR MTB Trails.
Yellow Trail –5km Novice Trail.
Orange Trail – 14km Novice to Intermediate Trail.
Green Trail – 20km Intermediate to Advanced Trail.
Blue Trail – 22km Advanced Trail.
All MTB trails are single track.
All riders to wear a helmet – NO HELMET, NO RIDE!

HIKING, WALKING, RUNNING, CROSS-COUNTRY TRAILS
Rietvlei parkrun Trail – 5km Trail
Blue Trail – 5km Trail
Green Trail – 10km Trail
Red Trail – 15km Trail
Tswana Trail – 5.4km
Sunset Trail – 2.3km
Dogs on leads are allowed. Please bring a poop bag for you dog.

 

[AinsleyHarriott]

Soon enough you'll find yourself driving an Opel Corsa with a R300,000 bike strapped to the back.

 

[PoisonousZebra07]

I am also interested in this. Also in GP.

 

[Moolz]

Great sport to get into.
You are already on the right track by spending time on BikeHub. Definitely consider a cheap second hand bike.

Go to a bike shop and get measured to see what size bike you need. Most bike shops dont charge for this. Also consider if you want a hard tail or soft tail (front and back suspension). I ride a hard tail which for me suits my budget and riding style - but will consider a dual suspension as its more comfortable on longer rides - especially over bumpy terrain.

Cycle gear - a good helmet, gloves and midrange cycle shorts. Cleats are not really required right away but you should consider a pair if you are committing to the sport.

Places to ride - tons of places in Jhb. Red Barn is great for beginners as its properly flat. Modderfontein, Asidale (Sunninghill), Rietvlei, Cradle, Hennops, MTN bike park (to improve your skills) are all decent places to ride.

 

[heinreich]

I ride a hard tail which for me suits my budget and riding style

Out of interest, what is a ballpark number for a hard tail bike (used, of course)

 

[AinsleyHarriott]

Out of interest, what is a ballpark number for a hard tail bike (used, of course)

I think you can find a decent one for around R10k.

 

[Moolz]

Out of interest, what is a ballpark number for a hard tail bike (used, of course)

I bought a used Trek X-Caliber 9 for around 20k. But you can get yourself a Titan or Silverback with decent components for 7-10k. If you are going with a Shimano group set, try aim for SLX components.

 

[heinreich]

I bought a used Trek X-Caliber 9 for around 20k. But you can get yourself a Titan or Silverback with decent components for 7-10k. If you are going with a Shimano group set, try aim for SLX components.

Epic. Thank you

 

[gavin286]

Some 2c input here from an old rider - are 26" bikes still a thing? If yes, perhaps look at those as an option on the 2nd hand market? For some reason I prefer the slightly smaller wheels compared to 29ers...

 

[Adrian86]

Also brand new but I got everything through Cyclelab (Francois). Got an epic Silverback and all gear with dropper post and tubeless conversion all on finance.

2022 Silverback Stride SX Hardtail Aluminium Mountain Bike | Cyclelab

Then i got all gear from all over. I will say one thing, the more expensive padded shorts are a must.

Oh and i have PWC bike park membership in Paulshof.

Best of luck!

Ps. maybe we set up a group ride for all the newbies? Im mega unfit lol.

 

[Andrew_Smith]

Eish, cycling is more expensive than motorcycling and I am not even joking.

I did road cycling and MTB a few years back. Great sport but quite expensive because maintenance and components are quite a bit steep. You don't have to get the latest and greatest but it is much like PC Gaming, once you experience that SRAM Eagle groupset you don't want to go back. Believe me, it is not fun when you have a lower-tier groupset on your bicycle. Carbon wheels were quite a nice upgrade but that is something you can get at a later stage when you put in the miles and can justify the upgrade.

To give some context, I did about 10 000km a year - good old days when I was lekker fit, now I sit behind the computer most of my days {joys of being a programmer}, so think it was safe to say I spend quite an amount of money on cycling but always went the second-hand route via BikeHub (except for clothing/gear).

In my opinion, MTB bike pricing increase quite a bit, for R10k second hand you will probably still get something entry-level which is fine if you don't mind. My 2014 Scott Scale 940 cost me roughly R10k back then fitted with 1 x 10 XT groupset and comfy RockShox Reba fork up front, of course still not as comfortable as your full suspension bikes.

Stick with 29" and do yourself a favor with tubeless conversion - will save you a lot of frustration when you are out on the trails. Confirm your sizing on the frames by checking on the manufactures sizing chart, all brands differ.

Remember to budget for some cleaning equipment since you will need to pay more attention to your drivetrain since you will be riding dirt and it will work out cheaper than sending the bicycle in for a wash each time. Don't forget your basic tools as well, floor pump, plugs for tubeless fixes, CO2, and of course coffee stop money after your ride.

As for gear, nothing wrong with starting with tekkies, I did the same but clips are so more comfortable and for control. Get some gloves as well, and don't skimp on a cheap helmet. Eyewear, check out D'Arcs for a cheaper option compared to Oakley.

Don't be afraid to ask for advice over on BikeHub, I did exactly the same when starting out, very helpful community. Check out GMBN, awesome informative videos regarding everything MTB.

Enjoy the journey, be safe out there (at least you picking MTB, so you will be in the mountains where there are no cars) and yes again it is expensive but you are investing in your health and you are doing better than the guy sitting on the couch.

@heinreich also remember those Redbull Hardline people are crazy and use completely different bicycles called Enduro Bikes. They are quite steep in pricing, for good reason, they are built to take a beating since the riders literally jump off cliffs/gaps with them. They are also equipped with proper suspension and sturdy wheelsets to keep you going over the gnarly terrain. Those bikes easily go for R60k second-hand and stupidly priced new. Brands like Evil Bikes, Specialized, Santa Cruz, and Yeti come to mind.

 

[G-spot]

I use to do Northern Farms every Sunday morning, Its a great trail with decent options as your fitness progresses.

Rietvlei is great , Big Red Barn too, Then there is the Modderfontein loop and Kings Kloof trails that is worth looking at.

Stick to a hard tail, 27.5 or 29"
Look for hydraulic disk brakes (should be common anyway)
Don't get cleats until you are comfortable on the bike, Even then you will fall. Those slow motion falls at an intersection because you cant unclip lol

I bought a new Specialized Rockhopper (entry level bike, Premium brand) when I started and ended up upgrading the group set, The BB, Fork, Shifters, head set, Crank etc. And still ended up selling and buying a more mid range Scott. Buy the bike with the best components you can for your budget, Even if it is a little older.

Try and get something with a serviceable fork, like Rockshox or Fox, And try and get a 1x group set if you can

 

[HK-Kid]

@Enigma

 

[heinreich]

Ma se chops. You guys are using words I didnt even know existed. I think I'll round up a few adverts and post them here, if you could comment?

But thanks for all the info in the meantime

 

[Cassady]

Do NOT skimp on riding shorts/bibtights. And get shammy cream for your nether bits. Your body will be very pleased on not shirking on the above.

That said — expensive shorts/bibs are expensive. So get the prices at the two extremes, and then get something in the middle, from a reputable brand. A bike shop will be able to give you suggestions — just don’t fall for the “all the pros ride with these” etc etc.

 

[heinreich]

from a reputable brand

First name that comes to mind/something you use?

 

[heinreich]

@G-spot
@Andrew_Smith
@Moolz

Dont feel obligated, but thoughts on the following?

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

Trek X-Caliber 5 mountain bike | Hardtail Mountain Bikes | Bike Hub

bikehub.co.za

Merida Big Nine 500 29er (L) for sale | Hardtail Mountain Bikes | Bike Hub

bikehub.co.za

 

[G-spot]

O to add, Work on your fitness, I don't know your fitness level or build, But I was fairly unfit and a hefty 114kg's.
Weight kills you, especially on the up hills, So if you can start doing more frequent shorter rides (5-10km 2/3 times a week) to build fitness.

@G-spot
@Andrew_Smith
@Moolz

Dont feel obligated, but thoughts on the following?

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

Trek X-Caliber 5 mountain bike | Hardtail Mountain Bikes | Bike Hub

bikehub.co.za

Merida Big Nine 500 29er (L) for sale | Hardtail Mountain Bikes | Bike Hub

bikehub.co.za

how tall are you? That would advise on what size frame you would need

 

[heinreich]

O to add, Work on your fitness, I don't know your fitness level or build, But I was fairly unfit and a hefty 114kg's.
Weight kills you, especially on the up hills, So if you can start doing more frequent shorter rides (5-10km 2/3 times a week) to build fitness.

how tall are you? That would advise on what size frame you would need

I started jogging again 2 weeks ago, so building the fitness up slowly.

My height is ..182 (184?) cm I think. Between those

 

[Andrew_Smith]

Personally out of those above, I'll go with the Scott Aspect 930.

But again, you will really need to check to size, since that is an XL frame.

Pity that it is 9speed, a bit outdated, along with the 3 chainrings up front.

Merida would be my second choice, I am not too familiar with the Manitou fork, I feel that the SR Suntour is a better brand but I could be completely wrong.

The drivetrain on both the Scott and Merida is solid.

I agree with @G-spot, uphills will be a killer due to a heavy bike, but at this price point, I don't think it is something to complain about. If you want lighter, you will have to fork out more.

 

[Andrew_Smith]

Have a look here:

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

RockShox Reba (not a bad fork at all), the Giant XTC range are bulletproof bikes as far as I am aware. The only downside is that it is quite an old frame (2012 model).

 

[heinreich]

only downside is that it is quite an old frame (2012 model

Stupid question regarding this, but is the main issue that it means more wear and tear?

 

[Andrew_Smith]

Stupid question regarding this, but is the main issue that it means more wear and tear?

Not at all, just an older frame so will have scratches and signs of use which is fine, it is an MTB and not a road bike. Also, it won't have all the bells and whistles of the newer frames, boosted hubs and such, which is also not a biggy.

 

[G-spot]

I started jogging again 2 weeks ago, so building the fitness up slowly.

My height is ..182 (184?) cm I think. Between those

Stick to a large frame bike then, Xl will be too big for you

 

[Chevez]

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

But I'd take my time on looking for something. That's a lot of bike and looks in good condition.

 

[Andrew_Smith]

South Africa's Trusted Cycling Classifieds | Bike Hub

Buy and sell bikes, parts and accessories. Buying a new or used bicycle? Browse thousands of bikes, parts and accessories in our trusted cycling marketplace.

bikehub.co.za

But I'd take my time on looking for something. That's a lot of bike and looks in good condition.

Lekker bike, 2015 model and 11.8kg (carbon frame).

 

[pɐlΛ‾pɐq‾ƃᴉq]

Great sport to get into.
You are already on the right track by spending time on BikeHub. Definitely consider a cheap second hand bike.

Go to a bike shop and get measured to see what size bike you need. Most bike shops dont charge for this. Also consider if you want a hard tail or soft tail (front and back suspension). I ride a hard tail which for me suits my budget and riding style - but will consider a dual suspension as its more comfortable on longer rides - especially over bumpy terrain.

Cycle gear - a good helmet, gloves and midrange cycle shorts. Cleats are not really required right away but you should consider a pair if you are committing to the sport.

Places to ride - tons of places in Jhb. Red Barn is great for beginners as its properly flat. Modderfontein, Asidale (Sunninghill), Rietvlei, Cradle, Hennops, MTN bike park (to improve your skills) are all decent places to ride.

Off topic. But that 3door on DTM's looks stunning.

 

[cudstu]

Solid advice given above, second hand is the way to go to get the most out of your budget try get a air fork as this can then be adapted to your weight and can also affect your enjoyment of this sport. Unfortunately bike prices have gone through the roof and its now very expensive to get in to the sport if you are paying cash for your bike, been doing this sport for over 20 years and cant believe the current pricing.

Based on your height I would recommend a L (19 inch) size hardtail 29er frame, stay away from the 26er's as tyres are becoming difficult to get.

Also have a look at bikemarket in Sandton they do second hand bikes as well as Linden cycles, Cyclelab have a second hand section but they seem to be geared to the more expensive second hand bikes. I have even bought reasonable priced accessories from Decathlon.

Factor in at least R1500 for a helmet, shorts from first ascent are good value for money, clip in shoes are a great upgrade as you progress or decide what type of riding you enjoy.

 

[Shab00]

Feels like you've already got most the info you need so will just add what I can.
I started MTB cycling during lockdown as a way to get out of the house.

Paid R7.5 k for a Momsen al529 (2012) on FB market place (Hardtail).
I weigh 115kg so need something that manage that as I did intend to do some jumping.
Cycling was easy to get into but you don't realise how much you've forgotten as it doesn't all come back to you naturally so watch a couple vids (Kyle & April on youtube, their turning vid helped loads but there's loads out there if you prefer another content creator).

With a bike it's unlikely you'll ever bend / break the frame of a metal bike. So when looking you really just want good components, shocks, brakes, chainset on pretty much any brand. I aimed for "Rockshox" as a friend has a certain suntour shock which wasn't for offroad but have since learned suntour do make quality shocks aswell.

Extra's needed:
100% need to buy a helmet to keep the brains where they're supposed to be (something which allows airflow is great as there will be lots of sweat) - there is a differences between offroad / onroad helmets.
Bicycle pump - regardless if you're tubed / tubeless you'll need to pump it up at some point. Start with a small one you can carry while riding. (eventually you can get a big one aswell which helps you pump it up easily compared to the 300 pumps needed on your small pump).
Puncture kit - You'll likely get a puncture at some point and is a cheap addition.
Not mandatory but good to have
- Gloves are great as they protect the hands when falling etc.
- Riding pants (decathlon sells the inners for cheap or the whole shorts with cushions) - Your ass is going to die, it does get used to it a little but the cushions really helps for long rides (2hrs +)
- Elbow & Knee pads - Falling is part of cycling and is manageable. If you get into jumping after a few falls you'll invest in these. They are pricey as hell but make it alot easier to walk away after a bail and not to feel the roasty all of next week.
Camel pack / water bottle - the camel pack doubles as a bag to keep your car keys and pump, puncture kit while cycling.


I've done +- 1000k's in 2 years. Generally cycle at places where there's some jumps so I can have some fun after a hour on the trails.
Red barn (jump section has grown well over lockdown).
Wolvespruit (Amazing jump lines, a big hill to do fitness on)
PWC cycle park (a handful of jumps but really well cut out trails for a short fun ride, also the lady can rent a bike if she wants to join.)

There's parks all over JHB but these are my closest and most fun for what I like
Best of luck!