Other 2021 Buyers Guides! Budget Hardtails Under $750 ua-cam.com/video/cgQgQnEd87I/v-deo.html Trail Hardtail Under $1500 ua-cam.com/video/O8DDLXIskOw/v-deo.html
I ended up getting a trek marlin 6 but I always find myself absolutely drooling over dual suspension bikes, they just look so damn good. Before my marlin believe it or not I had a Genesis V2100 Ground force (yes, the Walmart bike) but I bought it in 2011. And that was before they cheaped out on it and made the wheels thinner and most likely other things. Anyway I made it last till 2015-2016 believe it or not. What made it go was the derailleur caught the back wheel flying down a hill, completely destroying the derailleur mount. I had upgraded the bike multiple times after getting hit by a car witch messed up the drivetrain and front wheel. But now I'm not as athletic and agile making the marlin feel sluggish yet more capable at the same time! That v2100 had extreme sentimental value to me and makes me miss my dual suspension, good or bad.
Hey dude! You’re the reason why i bought my very first full sus bike :merida 120 600. Thank you for the awesome review. I do agree with your comments on the bike. 👌
Man I went to check out the d5/d7 for my self to my local shop since they sell polygon. Came out of shop with t7 2021 for myself and then t7 (their test bike) 2020 30 year celebration version for my wife. Expensive trip to a shop.
I just watched the video and purchased a 2022 Polygon Siskiu D6. It had the same features as the D7, but I didnt need the extra quality fork or shock. Thanks for the help!
I watched a lot of your videos to help me select my first proper mountain bike. Your information is really useful, to the point. Should have much more subs! Excellent content Phil.
Just received my 2021 D7 today. Looking forward to putting it together and going for a ride! Thanks for the great reviews. You definitely helped guide my decision.
Thanks for the round- up on these bikes. Awesome to see such a clear, concise outline for those newer riders who are overwhelmed by,or unaware of how many choices they have. One small thing- the Fezzari bike is pronounced “Ah-BAH-ho”. 😉. It’s a weird word for those not familiar with the Spanish influence of the Western US.,
I wasnt happy that when my T8 arrived (around 5/01/21) the cool lil cardboard box inside that had all the paperwork and tools etc had been opened and pretty much dumped out inside the big box and the big box had a hole in the bottom from shipping so who knows what was missing. More importantly- they had Vee tire co tires on the bike instead of the Schwalbes that they listed. - Those are worth about half as much by the way. -also a paint chip by the emblem on the headtube. So I emailed them -only about the tires- asking them to take the vee's back and send me the Schwalbes... The bikes online guys try to distance themselves from polygon like it was a different company and took zero responsibility for the manufacturer swap. (polygon is the only bike online bikes sells) They said there was a shortage (obviously you can buy as many Schwalbes as you want on Amazon). They said I should be glad i didnt have to wait longer for the right tires ( I did wait about 4-5 months). Im ok with taking a chance to save money adjusting the bike myself etc, Im not ok with this company not sending me what they advertised and what I paid for.
For £1500 there is the Calirbe triple B which is a better spec than all of those, with a higher end rockshox Sektor (still turnkey but with a debonair spring), a sram NX eagle (so kinda similar to the deore but a bit better), and more powerful Sram Guide RE brakes, as well as a few other nice things, for less than a lot of those bikes. Ive just picked up the Sentry and know a few people with triple Bs and Bossnuts and everyone has had a great experience on their Calibre's and I love my sentry, would happily recommend them to anyone with this price range as their budget
Can’t wait for your next brand value tier list video! I have some I’m curious to know about if it helps! -Bold, Cotic, Deviate, Ellsworth, Esker, DMR, ghost, haro, Kross, Ktm, Niner, Nicolai, NS, Orange, Pole, Pyga, Reeb, Ridley, RSD, Salsa, Spot, Unno, Voodoo, Airdrop, Dartmoor, BH,
Wish I had found your channel before I purchased my Siskiu D7 - Only so you could get the kickback though sounds like I chose a good option (its being delivered today!) I think there will be more bicycleonline purchases coming though so will be sure to use your affiliate code, well done on the channel/contents/vids, keep it up :)
This video and your review of the 2020 Polygon D7 helped me move from my first bike (Specialized Rockhopper HT) to my first full sus. Pre-ordered my 2021 D7 dropper post edition today. I’m really looking forward to this transition for a very reasonable price. (Black Friday sale price of $1600 with tax and free shipping. Thanks for the great videos. Subscribed!
@@nolixss694 I have nearly 2,000 miles on this bike now and really enjoy it for my level of riding and my trails. I don’t have huge drops or jumps but plenty of big, chunky stuff in the Arizona desert. I did blow up the rear hub at about 1,000 miles and upgraded to a Nukeproof Horizon V2 wheel. I just upgraded to a full SRAM GX drivetrain too, just to make life simpler on me maintaining 6 MTB’s with the same DT. The Shimano Deore 11 speed was ok, but I just prefer SRAM. Again, I have no regrets with this purchase and after each ride I look forward to getting back on this bike the next time.
I bought the cube 120 2021 for the price range of 1700 euros the parts it has are amazing only bike in that price range I could find with a dropper post.
I have the 2017 frame custom built with great parts, and I still find it very sketchy to ride on technical descents. (well, I use it as AM bike, so that's part of the reason, but 120 rear travel just can't cut it on my local trails)
@@undergrowngeraffe I would say for entry level bike it's great. I have used it on pump tracks and dirt jumps and bike parks up to red trails as I am not a black level rider yet. I have cased alot of shit and frame has held up.
@@andrewsobey2873 It's great if you ride just parks if you wanna ride Enduro for real I would get more travel. You would have to put 27 on the back to get more travel on the cube.
This channel is a life saver and definitely deserves more subs. I’m looking at getting the Norco fs3 for my first dual suspension bike. Is their anything that I should know before I get it? Awesome video too
Thanks mate! Really appreciate it! I'd check out my review from 2 years back. Still the same frame. Keep and eye on all the bolts and check they are tight and mess around a bit with the rear shock to find a decent tune for you
@@jlsszr8327 I hope you know that neuron is more of an XC bike than a trail bike, if you go for over an 60cm jump and the frame breaks, they don't cover it. Canyons real trail bike full suspension is spectral, 2019 trail bike of the year on it's pricerange. *If you climb a lot and don't go down full send, this should be better than spectral tho.
@@peetu444 Thanks I really appreciate your help on this one. I am looking for an occasional jump ready trail bike and will look into the Spectral line.
A great list, and great video, as always. I think this is probably the sweet spot in the market when looking to upgrading from a cheaper hardtail to full suspension. These newer bikes are including dropper posts, 1x12 dricetrains and great geo (particularly if you're spending $2.4-3K) leaving literally nothing significant lacking compared to bikes costing $1-2K more, and can be easily upgraded over time to be competitive with bikes costing more than double. I must admit, I'm surprised the Polygon Siskiu T7 didn't make the list. It compares very well against the Marin Rift Zone 2, with basically identical spec and geometry, while also featuring a lockout rear shock, 10-15mm extra travel (depending on wheel/frame size), and is AU$100 cheaper (not to mention you seem to love the T8, which is basically just a T7 with Fox suspension). Are you perhaps planning to put the T8 in a later list, or do you simply feel the D7 is close enough to the T7 that's its better to save the money?
@@paytonvercoe430 I feel that could be said of the 27.5 models (sizes S/M) with 140/150mm travel, but the 29in models (M-XL), with 135/140mm travel, can definitely be considered trail bikes.
@@gpearce11 absolutely fair and if I was buying a polygon I would probably go towards the T8, But I’m only speculating he has put the T7/8 in the all mountain category, for a multitude of reasons including sharing the love among manufacturers and suppliers across a range of videos
@@paytonvercoe430 That's a fair point, and the T8 is amazing value for money; definitely worth the extra over the T7 if within budget. I specified the T7 in this instance because it was within the allocated budget.
Thanks mate! The Siskiu T will be in the next buyers guide. When it comes to the 27.5 vs 29, the 29er wheels add around 10mm of travel in terms of how they feel rolling over things on the trail. I'd say the 29 is more capable. The D7 is definitely more XC/Trail compared to the T which is pushing more Trail/All mountain. You notice how composed the T is at speed and less nervous when it gets rough. This video was for more 115-130 mm bikes
Love your insight. You do a great job. I feel like you cover every bike I’m interested in. Can you please do an update with all these crazy price increases
Hi mate the Mongoose Salvo for trail riding and the mongoose Bootr for downhill are the best value ,they don't get reviews because people mistake then for the Walmart crap , I own both and the salvo just needs forks upgraded and see me sealed bearings etc and it's on par with much more expensive MTB ✌️
Hey mate, I'm stuck between the Polygon D7 and Norco FS3, which would u go for. The reason I'm leaning towards Norco is the fact that I can go into a shop and have a look at it, as the D7 is online only.. However, I feel like the D7 has better parts. I am a complete newbie to the sport too.
Still on a hardtail...Nukeproof Scout 2019 base model. But it's a great hardtail and it will hold me over until I can afford a Giant Trance 29 3. That bike really is great for $2250 USD. Or if I can just be smart with my money, maybe even step up to another Nukeproof in the Reactor Comp. The reactor is the dream trail bike for me.
Nice vid - a lot of good options in this price range, but it can be confusing trying to compare specs, especially when I have only ever ridden one mountain bike!
The Rose Root Miller 1 is a better choice, than the Ground Control, and its also within budget. It has 29 inch wheels, a Sram NX 1x12, Shimano 4 piston brakes in the front, and a 150 mm fork
@@chefgav1 value isnt always the sum of its parts. I've ridden both bikes again recently and this is what I think from my experience. The Marin is a lot more capable and a better platform to build on.
@@chefgav1 I didnt mention the rift zone 1? I've seen you comment on a few things mate, you seem to be getting a bit angry? I understand if you got a merida recently and you love it. It's a good bike but no need to be hostile and comment on anyone whose asking about anything other than a merida. The vast majority of bikes are made in 3 factories and they use many of the same parts. Nothing really makes a frame more special. When it comes to the bike shop debate I can go on for ages about that but I can say a lot of the mechanics at 99 arent up to scratch, there are some great ones but also a lot who have no idea. When you buy online the bikes are built by a mechanic who does this everyday then the bars, wheels and dropper post are taken off. All you need to do one you get it is install those parts (not too hard). I prefer the rift zone 2. The geometry is a better platform to build on. I'm sure the 120 will be updated next year to be a bit more modern. As it stands it's still a great bike for an all rounder.
Instead of the Siskiu D7 I recommend the Boardman MTR 8.8, pretty much identical components with some parts being better but actual trail/enduro travel (145 rear 150 front) not like the D7 which uses the XC tier components.
My Kona Process was stolen recently, so now I’m having to look into buying a new bike. I’m not wanting to spend as much but I still want a good bike so I’m looking towards budget bikes. I’m really leaning towards a giant trance or stump jumper now
Sorry mate, but I endo'd right over the way you pronounced "Marin". Put the stress on the second syllable, my dude: mə-RIN. (It's the name of the county to the north of San Francisco where mountain biking was born, and one of the oldest brands.) Otherwise, fantastic info and presentation! 👍
Great video, @Trail Talk MTB Your opinion(s) about the new Radon Skeen Trail 8.0 2021? It seems to be awesome but can't find any reviews. So, a video or at least some comments would be super helpful!
I agree the T7 is probably the better overall bike (although its AU$300 more; not enough to be relevant), unless of course you're specifically interested in a short-travel trail/"Down-country" bike, in which case you'd be better suited with the D7. Other than the 1x12 on the T7 (1x11 on the D7), and smaller brakes, the specifications are identical between the two. That said, the T7 could have probably replaced the Marin Rift Zone 2 on this list, especially as the Marin was recommended for descending. For $100 less you get 10/15mm more travel (15/20mm on 27.5), very similar geo, and a rear shock with lockout (also a longer 170mm dropper with the size L).
I think the D7 serve a purpose. The T is more of a trail/all mountain bike. The D is a bit more efficient and shorter so works better on more XC style trails. More travel doesnt equal a better bike. The T will be on my all mountain buyers guide.
@@trailtalkmtb6603 which would be the definitive sell point to choose one over the other? For example, I like to ride multiple terrain, it doesn't matter how difficult they are, going up is as fun as going down for me, jumping around is not my thing, but I don't mind having a few drops during my rides.
I have the same bike here in South FL it’s been really fun and reliable. The sparks 2022 are not longer at that price. But yeah, hard to find a bike with these features at 2k price
Hi bro I love these budget guides and can’t wait for the AM one because I am looking to get one.. Btw I looked on the Giant AU website and couldn’t find the Trance 29 3 from the worthy mentions, only a 29 2 🤷🏼♂️
I disagree that the definition of a 'budget, full-suspension, mountain bike' is a subjective thing. I get that you're saying that 'some people have more money than others' but if you spend under 500 $ or £ on a full suss: you bought a 'budget toy'. And if you're rich and the 3000 $ or £ bike you just bought wasn't a lot of money for you: that doesn't make your bike a 'budget bike'. If you know, roughly, the range of costs that all full suspension bikes come in, then a 'BUDGET', 'FULL SUSPENSION' '(real, fit for purpose) MOUNTAIN BIKE' is a pretty definite and highly objective thing.
Phil, great vid! Curious why you had the Polygon Siskiu D on the list instead of the Siskiu T? Do you think the T7 spec is better for trail riding, for the modest price premium? And these Polygons appear to be the most likely to be available these days. Thanks!
Question, so is the Vitus Mythique VR 29 the exact same frame as the VRS and VRX. Asking cause I have 150mm Marzocchi fork and a 140 deluxe rear suspension laying around collecting dust I can just throw on their. All the numbers seem the same.
Great review thank you. Am in the market in this price range for a couple of MTB flowing trail style bikes for the women in my life: better half and daughters. I'd be looking at 27.5, S to M. Of your five recommendations which would you suggest I go for? Thank you again.
Other 2021 Buyers Guides!
Budget Hardtails Under $750
ua-cam.com/video/cgQgQnEd87I/v-deo.html
Trail Hardtail Under $1500
ua-cam.com/video/O8DDLXIskOw/v-deo.html
Hi I'm between a siksiu d7 and t7
The t7 has better specs but is it worth the extra money
Can you do a video on trail bikes for $3,000 -$4,000 USD please
Thanks a lot, dude! I was just browsing for a second hand bike for around 1500€,but decided to splurge a bit and get a brand new canyon neuron 6
M8 I think we can all agree that u genuinely make the best buyer guides on yt! And I’m not even joking!
Every vid he makes I watch it like 15 times lol
Thanks guys!
My dad bought a yt and it took soo ling to come!! 😡😡😡
@@RNG-lr2cy wat?
@@RNG-lr2cy he didn’t mention a single yt bike in this list???
I ended up getting a trek marlin 6 but I always find myself absolutely drooling over dual suspension bikes, they just look so damn good. Before my marlin believe it or not I had a Genesis V2100 Ground force (yes, the Walmart bike) but I bought it in 2011. And that was before they cheaped out on it and made the wheels thinner and most likely other things. Anyway I made it last till 2015-2016 believe it or not. What made it go was the derailleur caught the back wheel flying down a hill, completely destroying the derailleur mount. I had upgraded the bike multiple times after getting hit by a car witch messed up the drivetrain and front wheel. But now I'm not as athletic and agile making the marlin feel sluggish yet more capable at the same time! That v2100 had extreme sentimental value to me and makes me miss my dual suspension, good or bad.
I got a trek marlin 6 and it’s so batterd but I’m looking for a full sus
Oof coulda had a polygon Xtrada 7 for less and gotten a better bike for your dough
Hey dude! You’re the reason why i bought my very first full sus bike :merida 120 600. Thank you for the awesome review. I do agree with your comments on the bike. 👌
Glad I could help! Stoked to hear you are enjoying it!
Great video brother , I think the Polygon is an amazing value for money :) I was already looking at it but now I like it even more
Man I went to check out the d5/d7 for my self to my local shop since they sell polygon. Came out of shop with t7 2021 for myself and then t7 (their test bike) 2020 30 year celebration version for my wife. Expensive trip to a shop.
You should add the canyon spectral to the all mountain buyers guide if you haven’t already
I've got a Rockrider AM500S Limited Edition size Medium for 1400€ all new equiped with:
- Rockshox Pike Select 150mm fork
- Rockshox monarch shock 140mm
- Sram X01 rear derailleur 12v
- Sram Level T pots with 180mm front, 160mm rear
- 66° HA
- 74° STA
- 610mm Top Tube
- 435lm Reach
I just watched the video and purchased a 2022 Polygon Siskiu D6. It had the same features as the D7, but I didnt need the extra quality fork or shock. Thanks for the help!
I watched a lot of your videos to help me select my first proper mountain bike. Your information is really useful, to the point. Should have much more subs! Excellent content Phil.
Thanks mate! Glad I could help!
Just received my 2021 D7 today. Looking forward to putting it together and going for a ride! Thanks for the great reviews. You definitely helped guide my decision.
How do you like it?
The same video about 2022 models will be very appreciated
excellent review, thank you. Think I'm going to go Vitus but the Bossnut is very compelling!
Any luck on finding it for sale?
Thanks for the round- up on these bikes. Awesome to see such a clear, concise outline for those newer riders who are overwhelmed by,or unaware of how many choices they have.
One small thing- the Fezzari bike is pronounced “Ah-BAH-ho”. 😉. It’s a weird word for those not familiar with the Spanish influence of the Western US.,
I wasnt happy that when my T8 arrived (around 5/01/21) the cool lil cardboard box inside that had all the paperwork and tools etc had been opened and pretty much dumped out inside the big box and the big box had a hole in the bottom from shipping so who knows what was missing.
More importantly- they had Vee tire co tires on the bike instead of the Schwalbes that they listed. - Those are worth about half as much by the way. -also a paint chip by the emblem on the headtube.
So I emailed them -only about the tires- asking them to take the vee's back and send me the Schwalbes...
The bikes online guys try to distance themselves from polygon like it was a different company and took zero responsibility for the manufacturer swap. (polygon is the only bike online bikes sells)
They said there was a shortage (obviously you can buy as many Schwalbes as you want on Amazon).
They said I should be glad i didnt have to wait longer for the right tires ( I did wait about 4-5 months).
Im ok with taking a chance to save money adjusting the bike myself etc, Im not ok with this company not sending me what they advertised and what I paid for.
For £1500 there is the Calirbe triple B which is a better spec than all of those, with a higher end rockshox Sektor (still turnkey but with a debonair spring), a sram NX eagle (so kinda similar to the deore but a bit better), and more powerful Sram Guide RE brakes, as well as a few other nice things, for less than a lot of those bikes. Ive just picked up the Sentry and know a few people with triple Bs and Bossnuts and everyone has had a great experience on their Calibre's and I love my sentry, would happily recommend them to anyone with this price range as their budget
Can’t wait for your next brand value tier list video! I have some I’m curious to know about if it helps! -Bold, Cotic, Deviate, Ellsworth, Esker, DMR, ghost, haro, Kross, Ktm, Niner, Nicolai, NS, Orange, Pole, Pyga, Reeb, Ridley, RSD, Salsa, Spot, Unno, Voodoo, Airdrop, Dartmoor, BH,
That is pretty much exactly what I had for the next one :)
@@trailtalkmtb6603 whoo-hoo! I have some more if you run out! 😂
Wish I had found your channel before I purchased my Siskiu D7 - Only so you could get the kickback though sounds like I chose a good option (its being delivered today!) I think there will be more bicycleonline purchases coming though so will be sure to use your affiliate code, well done on the channel/contents/vids, keep it up :)
This video and your review of the 2020 Polygon D7 helped me move from my first bike (Specialized Rockhopper HT) to my first full sus. Pre-ordered my 2021 D7 dropper post edition today. I’m really looking forward to this transition for a very reasonable price. (Black Friday sale price of $1600 with tax and free shipping.
Thanks for the great videos. Subscribed!
Thanks mate! Enjoy the new bike! Let me know how it goes!
@@trailtalkmtb6603 Will do!
@@ThePalominasPiper what do you think of it?
@@nolixss694 I have nearly 2,000 miles on this bike now and really enjoy it for my level of riding and my trails. I don’t have huge drops or jumps but plenty of big, chunky stuff in the Arizona desert. I did blow up the rear hub at about 1,000 miles and upgraded to a Nukeproof Horizon V2 wheel. I just upgraded to a full SRAM GX drivetrain too, just to make life simpler on me maintaining 6 MTB’s with the same DT. The Shimano Deore 11 speed was ok, but I just prefer SRAM. Again, I have no regrets with this purchase and after each ride I look forward to getting back on this bike the next time.
I bought the cube 120 2021 for the price range of 1700 euros the parts it has are amazing only bike in that price range I could find with a dropper post.
I have the 2017 frame custom built with great parts, and I still find it very sketchy to ride on technical descents. (well, I use it as AM bike, so that's part of the reason, but 120 rear travel just can't cut it on my local trails)
@@undergrowngeraffe I would say for entry level bike it's great. I have used it on pump tracks and dirt jumps and bike parks up to red trails as I am not a black level rider yet. I have cased alot of shit and frame has held up.
How are you enjoying the cube?
I’m about to choose between the cube stereo 120 and the norco fluid fs3.
@@andrewsobey2873 It's great if you ride just parks if you wanna ride Enduro for real I would get more travel. You would have to put 27 on the back to get more travel on the cube.
Haha, I’m not entering any competitions any time soon. Sounds like the cube will meet my needs for weekend rides at Mt Stromlo
Took the leap on the D7, I hope the affiliate link worked. Great review, I have been watching all your videos, really enjoying them.
How do you like your polygon?
Nice vid, I just got the 2021 Siskiu D7 and have not been disappointed. Do agree with the breaks maybe needing upgraded in the future.
Glad you are enjoying it! Such a great bike for the $$$
Went to sub and realised you only have 15k subs this content is on par with people who have hundreds of thousands of subs keep it up 👍👀
This channel is a life saver and definitely deserves more subs. I’m looking at getting the Norco fs3 for my first dual suspension bike. Is their anything that I should know before I get it? Awesome video too
Thanks mate! Really appreciate it! I'd check out my review from 2 years back. Still the same frame. Keep and eye on all the bolts and check they are tight and mess around a bit with the rear shock to find a decent tune for you
@@trailtalkmtb6603 thanks mate I checked out the vid and I’m getting the bike sometime over the next few weeks thanks heaps👍🏾
Just bought a Norco FS3 - looking forward to it!
just got my canyon neuron 6 and I'm loving it
How much better is it as opposed to the Neuron 5?
@@jlsszr8327 similar, just updated for 2020
@@talenhorton-tucker2153 Thanks. My choices are down to Neuron 5, 6, or 7 for my first full suspension.
@@jlsszr8327 I hope you know that neuron is more of an XC bike than a trail bike, if you go for over an 60cm jump and the frame breaks, they don't cover it. Canyons real trail bike full suspension is spectral, 2019 trail bike of the year on it's pricerange.
*If you climb a lot and don't go down full send, this should be better than spectral tho.
@@peetu444 Thanks I really appreciate your help on this one. I am looking for an occasional jump ready trail bike and will look into the Spectral line.
As a beginner looking to step up to a softtail this was great advice... thanks man :)
A great list, and great video, as always. I think this is probably the sweet spot in the market when looking to upgrading from a cheaper hardtail to full suspension. These newer bikes are including dropper posts, 1x12 dricetrains and great geo (particularly if you're spending $2.4-3K) leaving literally nothing significant lacking compared to bikes costing $1-2K more, and can be easily upgraded over time to be competitive with bikes costing more than double.
I must admit, I'm surprised the Polygon Siskiu T7 didn't make the list. It compares very well against the Marin Rift Zone 2, with basically identical spec and geometry, while also featuring a lockout rear shock, 10-15mm extra travel (depending on wheel/frame size), and is AU$100 cheaper (not to mention you seem to love the T8, which is basically just a T7 with Fox suspension).
Are you perhaps planning to put the T8 in a later list, or do you simply feel the D7 is close enough to the T7 that's its better to save the money?
The T7/8 are more towards the all mountain category.
@@paytonvercoe430 I feel that could be said of the 27.5 models (sizes S/M) with 140/150mm travel, but the 29in models (M-XL), with 135/140mm travel, can definitely be considered trail bikes.
@@gpearce11 absolutely fair and if I was buying a polygon I would probably go towards the T8, But I’m only speculating he has put the T7/8 in the all mountain category, for a multitude of reasons including sharing the love among manufacturers and suppliers across a range of videos
@@paytonvercoe430 That's a fair point, and the T8 is amazing value for money; definitely worth the extra over the T7 if within budget. I specified the T7 in this instance because it was within the allocated budget.
Thanks mate! The Siskiu T will be in the next buyers guide. When it comes to the 27.5 vs 29, the 29er wheels add around 10mm of travel in terms of how they feel rolling over things on the trail. I'd say the 29 is more capable. The D7 is definitely more XC/Trail compared to the T which is pushing more Trail/All mountain. You notice how composed the T is at speed and less nervous when it gets rough. This video was for more 115-130 mm bikes
Love your insight. You do a great job. I feel like you cover every bike I’m interested in. Can you please do an update with all these crazy price increases
Hi mate the Mongoose Salvo for trail riding and the mongoose Bootr for downhill are the best value ,they don't get reviews because people mistake then for the Walmart crap , I own both and the salvo just needs forks upgraded and see me sealed bearings etc and it's on par with much more expensive MTB ✌️
Giant Trance 3 is on sale in the US. Man i want to buy it since i currently ride a Giant Talon from 2015.
I got that Norco and I can confirm the FS2 and 1 are better value. So many upgrades.
Love your vids. Best MTB content on UA-cam bro keep it going!
Thanks mate! Really appreciate it
Just bought a Norco FS3 so excited to start riding it
Thanks for this! The Polygon is grabbing my attention at the moment!
Those inverted shocks, need rebuilding more often. All the oil settles at the bottom instead of pooling at shaft seal.
Flip it or lose it.
I'm right above this budget on the next tier! Waiting patiently c'mon Phil! Lol great video friend!
Working on it! haha. Thanks mate, I'll get grinding on that video
oh my goood! Nobody cares...
Love the links to get to the info you need fast in the video! Worth a sub and like for sure.
Watching on my new 12 Pro Max ,your head is massive now man haaa.
Great video once again ,going strong mate.
👑🔥🤙
It's already big enough hahahha. Cheers mate!
@@trailtalkmtb6603 Know the feeling. 😂💪🔥👍
Awesome buyers guide mate, hanging out for the Rift zone to drop in December... can't wait!
I couldn't wait till the rift zone drops Phil as the dates keep changing, I have now ordered the D7 after your advice on this channel...thanks heaps!!
@@Bazerca 😂 the turned tables
Hey mate, I'm stuck between the Polygon D7 and Norco FS3, which would u go for. The reason I'm leaning towards Norco is the fact that I can go into a shop and have a look at it, as the D7 is online only.. However, I feel like the D7 has better parts. I am a complete newbie to the sport too.
Still on a hardtail...Nukeproof Scout 2019 base model. But it's a great hardtail and it will hold me over until I can afford a Giant Trance 29 3. That bike really is great for $2250 USD. Or if I can just be smart with my money, maybe even step up to another Nukeproof in the Reactor Comp. The reactor is the dream trail bike for me.
Now the large Canyon Neuron 6 delivered to California about $2300 with tax etc
It’s crazy I remember when I was a kid, the kids with an 800 dollar bike were the rich kids
Awesome video...I've been looking into a budget full suspension and this helps a ton!
Pretty awesome video. The Polygon and Fezzari are on the top of my list for upgrade for my wife
😁😁😁. Excellent! Thanks! This is super helpful!
You're welcome!
I just got a Kona kitsune 2013 (the only year they made them) for £440 😅 it’s got tons of upgrades too! Front & back rock shox BARGAIN
D7 in the radar ❤❤❤
Very informative and detailed reviews, thanks a lot 🤙🏾
Thanks mate!
Nice vid - a lot of good options in this price range, but it can be confusing trying to compare specs, especially when I have only ever ridden one mountain bike!
So much great info here Phil. Great stuff 👍
Thanks mate!
The Rose Root Miller 1 is a better choice, than the Ground Control, and its also within budget. It has 29 inch wheels, a Sram NX 1x12, Shimano 4 piston brakes in the front, and a 150 mm fork
That's more of an all mountain bike. This video was for 115-130mm bikes. I go over all the criteria in the first section of the video
@@chefgav1 value isnt always the sum of its parts. I've ridden both bikes again recently and this is what I think from my experience. The Marin is a lot more capable and a better platform to build on.
@@chefgav1 I didnt mention the rift zone 1? I've seen you comment on a few things mate, you seem to be getting a bit angry? I understand if you got a merida recently and you love it. It's a good bike but no need to be hostile and comment on anyone whose asking about anything other than a merida. The vast majority of bikes are made in 3 factories and they use many of the same parts. Nothing really makes a frame more special.
When it comes to the bike shop debate I can go on for ages about that but I can say a lot of the mechanics at 99 arent up to scratch, there are some great ones but also a lot who have no idea. When you buy online the bikes are built by a mechanic who does this everyday then the bars, wheels and dropper post are taken off. All you need to do one you get it is install those parts (not too hard).
I prefer the rift zone 2. The geometry is a better platform to build on. I'm sure the 120 will be updated next year to be a bit more modern. As it stands it's still a great bike for an all rounder.
Cube stereo 120 hardly ever gets mentioned while it’s such good value for money. Can’t wait to hop on mine and start hitting the trails.
Its a great bike! That's why I put it in my worthy mentions :) You will love it!
Instead of the Siskiu D7 I recommend the Boardman MTR 8.8, pretty much identical components with some parts being better but actual trail/enduro travel (145 rear 150 front) not like the D7 which uses the XC tier components.
Ordered a stumpy alloy! Waiting for it hahaha. Nice video man 👍
Good choice!
@@trailtalkmtb6603 any advice on how to let the missus know without getting killed?
@@DirtyPandaMTB Sell something and get payment in cash and gradually pretend you are spending it but meanwhile you are just paying off the bike ;)
@@trailtalkmtb6603 classic hahaha I'll start with my kidneys
@@DirtyPandaMTB the secret is to also buy her a bike. Then you’ll always have a riding buddy you can rely on if you get hurt deep in the forest.
My Kona Process was stolen recently, so now I’m having to look into buying a new bike. I’m not wanting to spend as much but I still want a good bike so I’m looking towards budget bikes. I’m really leaning towards a giant trance or stump jumper now
Loving your buyers guides mate!
Cheers mate!
Actually puts time stamps. Well done.
Amazing video detailed everything! Subscribed
Sorry mate, but I endo'd right over the way you pronounced "Marin". Put the stress on the second syllable, my dude: mə-RIN. (It's the name of the county to the north of San Francisco where mountain biking was born, and one of the oldest brands.) Otherwise, fantastic info and presentation! 👍
Great video, @Trail Talk MTB
Your opinion(s) about the new Radon Skeen Trail 8.0 2021? It seems to be awesome but can't find any reviews.
So, a video or at least some comments would be super helpful!
Thank you. Really good job explaining.
Giant Stance 29 2 + dropper 1858.60usd quite a fun bike to ride with.
Best MTB vid ever
Nice comment
Get the T7 over the D7. For $100 extra its a substantial upgrade, no point of buying a D7
I agree the T7 is probably the better overall bike (although its AU$300 more; not enough to be relevant), unless of course you're specifically interested in a short-travel trail/"Down-country" bike, in which case you'd be better suited with the D7. Other than the 1x12 on the T7 (1x11 on the D7), and smaller brakes, the specifications are identical between the two.
That said, the T7 could have probably replaced the Marin Rift Zone 2 on this list, especially as the Marin was recommended for descending. For $100 less you get 10/15mm more travel (15/20mm on 27.5), very similar geo, and a rear shock with lockout (also a longer 170mm dropper with the size L).
I think the D7 serve a purpose. The T is more of a trail/all mountain bike. The D is a bit more efficient and shorter so works better on more XC style trails. More travel doesnt equal a better bike. The T will be on my all mountain buyers guide.
@@trailtalkmtb6603 which would be the definitive sell point to choose one over the other? For example, I like to ride multiple terrain, it doesn't matter how difficult they are, going up is as fun as going down for me, jumping around is not my thing, but I don't mind having a few drops during my rides.
The canyon has bumped up to 2k in usa
Good job mate, very helpful 🤟🤟
most underrated youtuber
I have the same bike here in South FL it’s been really fun and reliable. The sparks 2022 are not longer at that price. But yeah, hard to find a bike with these features at 2k price
I wonder will the ripmo af make the next category up? I just got one and I love it
Definitely in my enduro bike buyers guide
I wonder why almost all these bikes use Shimano rather than SRAM, which I much prefer.
Love this video! Keep up the good work.
I'm interested in the 2021 norco fluid 2 fs. Any recommendations on needed upgrades?
cube stereo 120 2021 is amazing
Agreed!
Polygon D7 2021 👍👍
Great vid man keep it up 👍
Great video 👍👍
I have just got a cube anolog to get back into biking. Is the bike any good, I got a 17" frame with the 29 wheels.
I have cube attention 29er. Looking to buy d7
This deserves a subscribe 👍🏼
Great review thanks mate
Hi bro I love these budget guides and can’t wait for the AM one because I am looking to get one..
Btw I looked on the Giant AU website and couldn’t find the Trance 29 3 from the worthy mentions, only a 29 2 🤷🏼♂️
I'm still working on getting a Tacoma to get to the trails lol
Buy a used one! I have a 2010 and it runs like a champ. Save money on the truck so you can get more bikes!
Why does nobody talk about the polygon t7?
I talk about the Siskiu T in my all mountain guide :)
I like the vertical shock for more drink bottle space, the d7 with it halfway through just looks annoying.
This is a hot category right now! 🔥
Down county 🤠
Yeeeeehaaaawwww
I self built an old 2008 specialized enduro frame and someone stole it… time to get a new bike I guess lol
great guide Phil, can you do an in-depth on the Cube Stereo 120 by any chance?
I disagree that the definition of a 'budget, full-suspension, mountain bike' is a subjective thing. I get that you're saying that 'some people have more money than others' but if you spend under 500 $ or £ on a full suss: you bought a 'budget toy'. And if you're rich and the 3000 $ or £ bike you just bought wasn't a lot of money for you: that doesn't make your bike a 'budget bike'.
If you know, roughly, the range of costs that all full suspension bikes come in, then a 'BUDGET', 'FULL SUSPENSION' '(real, fit for purpose) MOUNTAIN BIKE' is a pretty definite and highly objective thing.
Yewwww 🤙 Thanks for the advice Phil!!
Great content, top job.!
15k dude congrats
🎉 Thanks mate!
Also the Boardman mtr 8.9, 8.6 and 9.0
me on my xc hardtail bike doing dh tracks with 2.5 meter drops and 4.5 mar jumps.
the hard-tail hurts
and the geometry
wich one out of all of these do you tink is the best I am thinking of getting the polygon
Nice video Phil✨. Could you please suggest the best one in Canada market under the
same category?. Are these available in Canada Market?
Canada would be the Norco. But I would be tempted by the Specialized for the bigger descents in Canada.
Phil, great vid! Curious why you had the Polygon Siskiu D on the list instead of the Siskiu T? Do you think the T7 spec is better for trail riding, for the modest price premium? And these Polygons appear to be the most likely to be available these days. Thanks!
Thanks mate! The T is in my all moubtain buyers guide :)
I’m moving on to entry MTB AND WOULD LIKE YO KNOW WHICH OF the 3 is the best bang for the buck:
Vitus Mythique vrx 29; polygon SisqiuT7
Considering the 3 bikes below, which is the better buy value wise: mythiquie VRX;; polygon Sisqiu t7 or D7...
Dam your reviews are so good man
Question, so is the Vitus Mythique VR 29 the exact same frame as the VRS and VRX. Asking cause I have 150mm Marzocchi fork and a 140 deluxe rear suspension laying around collecting dust I can just throw on their. All the numbers seem the same.
Thanks for the video
No problem!
Great review thank you. Am in the market in this price range for a couple of MTB flowing trail style bikes for the women in my life: better half and daughters. I'd be looking at 27.5, S to M. Of your five recommendations which would you suggest I go for? Thank you again.