While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget. Keep an eye on the magazine for reviews on the 2016 models starting to arrive on our shores.
1/6
Momsen AL129
The Momsen AL129 manages to hit the sub-R9 000 price point without making sacrifices on the spec. While the drivetrain could easily have been made up of non-series parts to keep costs down, the 9-speed Shimano Altus will be welcomed by riders looking for reliability. It’s also good to see a RockShox XC28 fitted to the front end – it’ll soak up the bumps with ease.
PRICE: R8 699*
*Prices correct at time of publishing (April ’15). Prices may fluctuate depending on the current exchange rates. Prices in stores may vary.
While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget.
2/6
Scott Contessa Scale 730
Scott’s Contessa range of bikes, including both on- and off-road models, is tailored to the specific needs of women riders. The Scale 730’s Contessa Solution Geometry and a Contessa Sport saddle will ensure you stay in control and comfortable, no matter what the conditions. A reliable Shimano drivetrain is backed up by a host of Syncros-branded (and owned by Scott) parts, making for a bike that’ll leave you wanting to explore more.
PRICE: R10 000*
*Prices correct at time of publishing (April ’15). Prices may fluctuate depending on the current exchange rates. Prices in stores may vary.
While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget.
3/6
Merida Big Nine TFS 300
Rudi van Houts and charismatic José Antonio Hermida have used their Big Nine hardtails to decimate most of the Cape Epic field, powering their way to a few stage victories. The TFS 300 may be slightly undergunned for reaching the Cape Epic podium, but it’s inherited quality geometry and handling characteristics from those high-end racing models. A host of Merida-branded parts is complemented by a nine-speed Shimano drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic brakeset, and 100mm SR Suntour front fork with lockout.
PRICE: R9 499*
While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget.
4/6
GT Karakoram Elite
The GT Karakoram is certainly a favourite among weekend warriors who want reliability as well as a bike that’s capable of taking them on exciting off-road adventures. In 2015, a 10-speed drivetrain made up of Shimano Deore parts is mated to a three-blade FSA crankset, ensuring each and every gear-change is crisp and fast. And the Karakoram – featuring GT’s iconic Triple Triangle – hits the nail on the head once again.
PRICE: R9 495*
*Prices correct at time of publishing (April ’15). Prices may fluctuate depending on the current exchange rates. Prices in stores may vary.
While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget.
5/6
Specialized Jynx Comp 650B
In 2014 Specialized launched the 650b Pitch, to compete in the entry-level XC market. At the same time, in line with their focus on making quality products for both men and women, the Pitch was twinned with the Jynx. It offers Specialized’s Women’s Recreational XC Geometry, which the Big S say is anatomically engineered for women; while the 650b Pitch and Jynx models share the same price point, the Jynx features different grips, saddle and geometry, for a more female-friendly fit.
PRICE: R7 999*
*Prices correct at time of publishing (April ’15). Prices may fluctuate depending on the current exchange rates. Prices in stores may vary.
While we all dream of riding and racing range-topping, feather-light mountain bikes, dripping in the latest bling, our budgets and household commitments often force us to scale down our dreams to a more affordable reality. But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre bike – this month, Gear Ed Oli Munnik runs through a comprehensive range of performance hardtails that will still suit your budget.
6/6
Mongoose Tyax Comp 29
While Mongoose are better known for their BMX roots, this American company also produces a wide range of mountain bikes. Locally, Mongoose have created a foothold in the recreational or leisure segment of the mountain-bike market. The 32-hole Alex rims are tubeless-compatible, which is useful to know if you’re planning to convert from tubes. Kenda Small Block Eight tyres feature low-profile, closely-spaced knobs – they’re fast-rolling, with consistent grip. A full Shimano drivetrain and hydraulic brakeset complete a solid package.
PRICE: R6 495*
*Prices correct at time of publishing (April ’15). Prices may fluctuate depending on the current exchange rates. Prices in stores may vary.