Mountain bikes: How much is too much?

Andrew Unwin09 May 2011

£6000 is far too much money for a mountain bike, especially as the police don't give two hoots if it gets stolen! In reality, these hyper expensive mountain bikes are a lot like hyper expensive cars, they have the tech to do far more than the lower priced competition, but the riders rarely have the skills or ability needed to get the maximum out of these pieces of hardware. For people whom compete, where every gram matters, it is understandable, but for the 99% of the population whom just got to work or days out on them, an extra half kilo of metal for a fraction of the price is acceptable. There are numerous high quality bikes around these days for a sensible price, maybe the show could focus on the bolt-on bits you need to use bikes these days, Cree emitter lights, wireless speedometers, clothing, cycling shoes, CO2 pumps and so on and so forth!

Rikki Jacobs09 May 2011

£6000 is a lot for a mountain bike, but as a rider my self (and owning rather expensive bikes) you do get what you pay for. All the latest technology and materials go into the top of the range bikes, and if you are racing then it is well worth it. even as a weekend rider, I wouldn't want to compromise any of the parts i use for cheaper components. I mainly ride downhill and free-ride mountain biking, so i need stronger components, more powerful brakes, and decent suspension. From riding at the age of 10, and growing up saving up for parts and breaking cheap components, to working and being able to afford the top of the range parts, it is infinitely worth it. You have so much more confidence in the bike when you know you have something which is strong, take the abuse and also comes with the proper warranty if they do happen to break. for the average rider, yes it is too much, but if you can afford it, and intend to use it, then well worth the money.

iBringkarma10 May 2011

It all depends what the bikes going to be used for and how serious you are into biking. You can get some good serious bikes for <1k but if you want the best of the best you pay far more. It's the same in any hobby or sport. As for the first comment relating to police, it's down to th he owner to secure and look after their own property. Police can only investigate leads to identify suspects. People can help themselves by alarming sheds, cctv on property, strong locks, gravel drives, secure go gardens, data tagging property and making a note of arterial numbers and identifiable marks. If something vanishes without trace, theres no trace to track it. Help your selves.

Ben16 May 2011

I Currently own a LTD Cube, £900 and while you can spend a lot more, a can get a descent bike for around £700 pounds and above. A lot comes down to how much you plan on using it, and how much punishment you are planning on putting it through, I ride trails, and the Cube is perfect for my Wednesday night ride. Obviously there is better, but I have no need. So yes you can get a good bike for much much less.

ann cleverley28 December 2011

Having had a Specialized Hardrock, (which is the entry level for a mountain bike). I cannot wait to get hold of either the Stumpjumper FSR or the Orange 5. I am now ready to use a bike with all the latest technology, but my price limit is going to be £2000 so it will have to be a 2011 bike. Although having seen the Gadget Show's episode showing the Orange 5 this could be the bike for me.