Mountain bike and carts

[Manosteel]

I am in the market for a new Mountain bike. Nothing special, it will only be used for some training and to pull a cart I use to hual harvested game in certain areas I hunt. I have an old Raleigh non-suspension bike that is over 10 years old. Still in great condition but now wanting to get something new.

I have read through the forum and the debate is between hard tail and full supension bike. Howerver, all the pictures of guys who use pull carts are with hard-tails. I assume this is the way to go if pulling a cart.

Thoughts?

 

[S&S ARCHERY]

I would definitely go hardtail as the pedaling efficiency is a lot better and really take a look at a 29er bike. The larger wheels will be a lot better for pulling that cart. Also make sure it has disc brakes, they'll be needed when going downhill.

Steve

 

[fillthefreezer]

i run a hardtail 29 and pull a trailer, and i really like the setup. if i did any recreational riding id probably have leaned more toward the 27.5

 

[Vance in AK]

Just to complicate things some FS bikes like my K2 Razorback Team have lock outs on the rear suspension.

 

[Manosteel]

Thanks guys - that's what I was thinking 29'er hard tail. any particular brand I should stay away from? Wanting to keep it around $500 or less, and used is difinetly a option if I know what bikes to look out for.

 

[fillthefreezer]

i dont know enough to say stay away but ive been happy with my specialized rock-something or other. the one that is around $550 with 29s. suits my needs well.

 

[jcodyc40]

I just got a gravity 29r from bikesdirect and am very happy with it. Not sure what there reputation is but it is alot better then the target special I had before.

 

[Curtis C]

If I was in the market(and I may be) I would look at the Surly Krampus. Its a 29+ rigid bike(but could be setup with frt susp), basically a 29er with 3" wide tires that can be run at lower pressure to soften the ride some. The wider tires also do really well if you encounter some snowy or wet trails. It still rolls very well on dry trail since its not a full on fat bike. To get this bike in the budget you have you would need to find a used one.

Either way I would make sure to use a hardtail for what you describe.

 

[bobhunts]

I just bought a new 29er last weekend at a tent sale. I got a good deal and bought a full suspension bike with the lock-out option. Be aware it is not exactly like a full mechanical lock-out like what one would think. At least what I was looking at.. with all of the brands being sold. Seems they have 3 settings and at the hardest really not much movement but I would believe with a hard tail and pulling a cart I would go hard tail for sure. Now do you have any ideas on a cart? I am looking to do that too! Bob.