Budget Bike Thoughts $1,000 or less

I am a long time but intermittent rider with most riding at 6MR and Sourlands and occasionally on the canal. I have had several bikes over the years, but my current ride is Trek Marlin that I've had for about 10 yrs old and is pretty much stock (e.g. mechanical disc brakes, etc.). While it is a pretty basic bike, it has gotten me through pretty much everything I have thrown at it over the years. However it is starting to get a bit worn and I'm thinking of getting a new or used bike to replace it, but would want to stay under $1,000. I'm about 5'10. Any thoughts/suggestions on replacement options. Used? New? As you can tell from my current ride, i don't need high end, but solid, functional and reliable. Appreciate any thoughts.
 
I would look for a air fork/ 1x/ hydro brakes and tubeless wheels. Likely in a large.

Good luck.

I have nothing on hand these days that hits all the marks for you.

This is out of stock today, but one of the best sub 2k out there:

 
This is obviously massively complicated by the current bike supply chains, but the Giant Talon 1 is a good choice. Components alone are going to be a massive upgrade for you. 1x10 drivetrain, hydraulic brakes, air fork etc.
 
I would look for a air fork/ 1x/ hydro brakes and tubeless wheels. Likely in a large.

Good luck.

I have nothing on hand these days that hits all the marks for you.

This is out of stock today, but one of the best sub 2k out there:

Thanks for the input on tech/features. Thanks also for the link. Looks like a nice bike.
 
I'd definitely suggest buying from a local shop, but given current inventory challenges, that might not be feasible. Just doing a quick search, this looks pretty close to what you'd probably want:


Appears to be in stock in black/larger.
 
@waterman199

Yup, I’d second the Vitus. I started out on a Nucleus and moved to a Mythique. Both are arguably the better best bang for buck bikes in their classes. If out of stock, sign up for an email notification and pull the trigger as soon as available because they sell out instantly.

My Nucleus arrived without issue and assembly was easy peasy. If you do buy one, be sure to add a Brand-X dropper. CRC sells those too.
 
Yup, I’d second the Vitus. I started out on a Nucleus and moved to a Mythique. Both are arguably the better best bang for buck bikes in their classes. If out of stock, sign up for an email notification and pull the trigger as soon as available because they sell out instantly.

My Nucleus arrived without issue and assembly was easy peasy. If you do buy one, be sure to add a Brand-X dropper. CRC sells those too.

L & M were in stock when linked hope he jumped on it I got an ns bikes eccentric over the Vitus due to liking the paint more
 
Not sure if it is enough of an upgrade for you, but we just got in a bunch of Trek Marlin 5 in an array of colors....$700...and I have some Talon 2 models coming in a few weeks....$680....
 
that is how most "can I get a good bike under $1k decisions go" ie. "i bought an under $2K bike". get a dropper post and change the tires (not a fan of the XR3's)
 
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