I assume you will be riding on the road so i will suggest this http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/71-fx-2010-hybrid-bike-ec016501
Mountain bikes are not ideal for road riding, so the one i have suggested is a hybrid which basically has the styling of a mountain bike, but is set up with road friendly tyres and are generally lighter.
Hi,
Well I live in a area by the coast where i could do a lot of off road riding, i havent tried it before but i would like to be able.
Yep, as above. For entry level, you wont get better than the specialized
Should be in the Sports Arena really, you will get responses there.
I'm a similar size to you and went with a Mongoose Tyax Super and put 1.5" slicks on it. Ithas hydraulic disc brakes and remote lockouts for the front suspension. Just under £400 I think. It's been brilliant.If the budget was stretched to around £550 what sort of bike would you recommend?
I'm also struggling to choose between a proper Hybrid and an MTB with 26" slicks and lockouts (no road bikes), what would you recommend? I'm 6ft4 and 20st if that makes any impact on the selection.
Its not the kit I'm bothered about, its the frame. I would take a Specialized bike at this price point over any other brand with 15 years riding experience behind me, their frames are tight and the geometry is near perfect. You can upgrade components but you can't go improving a frame.
Of these two which would all you bike enthusiasts choose?
http://www.evanscycles.com/products-comparison?products=ec020661|ec020670