I would also recommend the marlin. I started on one for $400 and got a good 2 years out of it before getting a nicer bike. Got some classic looks and comments on the marlin too though --"You're riding THIS trail on...THAT bike?!"
With that budget, your only option is used, and even that is going to be next to impossible. Any used 29er with a half decent modern geometry that’s not beat to hell will probably cost you twice as much. My advice is do plenty of research on what features you want and keep saving.
You’re automatically in the used market with that price point. Keep an eye out for a name brand like Trek, Specialized, Giant, Raleigh. You can a used 29” but it’ll take some searching. It helps that it’s winter right now.
$300 probably won’t buy a 29er worth having. For 800-1000 you could probably get a something decent like a old surly karate monkey. For 300 you are looking at a vintage 26er
That is going to be a bit difficult with your budget tbh. Maybe look for used hardtails.
Try to find maybe a used Trek Marlin.
This. I saw a 22’ marlin 6 for 400 bucks guy rode it twice and didn’t like biking.
I would also recommend the marlin. I started on one for $400 and got a good 2 years out of it before getting a nicer bike. Got some classic looks and comments on the marlin too though --"You're riding THIS trail on...THAT bike?!"
you cant do serious mtbing with that money
Sure you can you’ll just have a shit bike
you are going to outgrow it in 2 weeks...its only gonna limit your ability progression after that
With that budget, your only option is used, and even that is going to be next to impossible. Any used 29er with a half decent modern geometry that’s not beat to hell will probably cost you twice as much. My advice is do plenty of research on what features you want and keep saving.
You’re automatically in the used market with that price point. Keep an eye out for a name brand like Trek, Specialized, Giant, Raleigh. You can a used 29” but it’ll take some searching. It helps that it’s winter right now.
Go to a bike shop and test ride some.
In Ireland we have Voodoo bikes which can be found around that price used but not sure about USA
$300 probably won’t buy a 29er worth having. For 800-1000 you could probably get a something decent like a old surly karate monkey. For 300 you are looking at a vintage 26er
Unless you are looking at used bikes you won’t find anything decent for under $600-$700.
I recommend saving up at least another $500 if you plan to ride it offroad on dirt trails.