Other 2021 Buyers Guides! Budget Hardtails Under $750 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-cgQgQnEd87I.html Trail Hardtail Under $1500 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-O8DDLXIskOw.html
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. 👌
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.
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!
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.
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 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.,
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 :)
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,
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.
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
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
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
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.
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!
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.
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 ✌️
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.
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!
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! 👍
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 🤷🏼♂️
What do you think about direct to consumer brands, specifically Canyon bikes? I found through my own research that Canyon and YT offer some of the best bang for your buck, especially if you purchase at the end of the MTB season (like right now) through their outlet or clearance sections. Ive seen some of their bikes such as the Canyon Neuron high end trail bike reduced by upwards of $2K.
I think direct brand are great, they help make the market more competitive. In terms of quality its pretty much comparable. Warranty support can be hit and miss but that's the risk you take I guess. A lot of brands could learn a lot from brands like Fezzari.
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
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.
hello im from AUS and im trying to get a Vitus VRS but its out of stock on wiggle, is there anywhere else i can buy with same price? cheers! good vid as always!
Great vid!!!! I bought the Specialized Alloy because Giant didn't have any bikes or anyone else. @Trail Talk MTB what upgrades would you do to the Bike?
What bike was that at 2:31-2:36? With that purple stem is that a pivot? I think 2nd one isn't.. Btw possibly best of best brands you choose for that money really amazing vid.. 👏❤️
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.
Should I get a hard tail or FS for my first bike? I rode a hard tail for a year about a decade ago before it got stolen and that ended my mtn biking career. Scared of getting a hard tail and getting into a lot more than anticipated and immediately wanting a FS
I’m torn between the FS2, Poly D7, and Vitus Mythique. Any best picks of those three? Also at 5’8” I’m thinking a large might be a bit long. Would I suit a medium Fluid better?
