entry level MTB recommendations?

[poohbear]

Hey guys,

i'm looking for an entry level hard tail MTB 700-1000 mark. Will be doing some casual single trails.
Was gonna go for a 29er but seems like its probably not within budget.
Saw a few speicals in 99bikes... but not sure which is more value for money.

Merida Matts 20 MD $483
Fork: RST GILA 100 ML
http://99bikes.com.au/bike/merida-matts-20-md/15/6585

Merida Matts Trail 300-D (2012) $799
Fork: SR XCM-HLO 120
99bikes.com.au/bike/merida-matts-trail-300-d/15/6594

[Nobody]

It goes something like this:

Technically the cheapest is often going to be the best value just because of diminishing returns. This usually only works for people who don't care what they ride. For regular riders, the mid range priced bikes are where the value is because they are usually nicer bikes to ride and maintain.

In other words... buy cheap, buy twice. I'd be getting the more expensive of the two you listed.

[Mulger bill]

Have a look at the Giant Talon too...

[antipodean]

Check you local Gumtree bicycle listings there can be some real bargains there.

[christophers94]

Have a look at the Giant Talon too...

+1 at looking into the Talons great value for money, and if you can stretch to the talon 0 you would not be disapointed awesome features for the price.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bik ... ifications

Also have a squiz at the new boulder 29er0 with mostly sram x5 groupset and lockout on the forks great value for money and only $650
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bik ... ifications

[poohbear]

Have a look at the Giant Talon too...

+1 at looking into the Talons great value for money, and if you can stretch to the talon 0 you would not be disapointed awesome features for the price.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bik ... ifications

Also have a squiz at the new boulder 29er0 with mostly sram x5 groupset and lockout on the forks great value for money and only $650
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/bik ... ifications

I like the Talon, looks quite good at a good price too!

Should i care if its mech or hydraulic brakes?

and what about coil vs hydraulic fork? i think all these entry ones are coil ?

[cru]

mate just bought the new Talon 29er.
He is rapt in it (as a first timer)

[Mulger bill]

I like the Talon, looks quite good at a good price too!

Should i care if its mech or hydraulic brakes?

and what about coil vs hydraulic fork? i think all these entry ones are coil ?

Cable discs need periodic adjustment to compensate for pad wear and cable stretch, hydros are pretty much set and forget until the pads need replacing. Either one will stop you well enough.

Coil forks are heavier than airspring. Buy, ride until they wear out or break then swap in the new unit of your choice.

[poohbear]

mate just bought the new Talon 29er.
He is rapt in it (as a first timer)

cool. he got the 2013 ?