Mountain bikes for hunting?

[steeleywhopper]

Just wondering what sort of Mountain Bike I should be looking for to get behind those locked gates? I am new to the mountain bike scene so I could really use some place to start for a quality mid range bike that wont break the bank or my arse.

[KillBilly]

I have several mountain bikes. I prefer the Giant brand. Trek is good and their are many more. I have special skewers in my back wheels to pull a Bob trailer with. Cheap is not always best, they don't allow the quickest adjustments or tire changes, seat height, etc. Anyway, that's my opinion

[Ray]

I'd recommend one that does not have suspension for expediency and efficiency.

[Bofire]

I have a nice mountian bike a Diamond back, but for hunting I went and got a 100 dollar bike, check pawn shops and stuff. Hunting on one just beats the crap out of them, tieing bears and deer on top, makes them ugly, while hunting you dont go fast or anything that you need a good bike for. Just get one you dont mind ruining!! LOL
Carl

[snohohunter]

Also, pick up a scabbard and tie it on to the front of the bike, just as you would on a horse .......for when you're riding around.  Then I have packs on either side of my rear tires in the back for general gear, etc. 

Like Bonfire mentions, something on the cheaper side is best because you'll probably be beating it up. 

Joes has some decent bikes in the 200 - 300 range that would be perfect....and wont break the bank.  I also got my rack bags there. 

[DeKuma]

I have a Mongoose Blackcomb for sale. $200 with upgraded "soft" seat and better bars and grips.
New they are $279, but with the upgrades it would push over the $300 mark.  Mine has been ridden once and been hanging in garage ever since.  It is a good alternative to the more expensive ones like mentioned above.  Full suspension and dual disc brakes make a big difference in comfort.

Bought it thinking I would use it more, but since buying property in Colville, I never use it.
Let me know if you would be interested.  Going on Craigslist sometime soon.

[Intruder]

Check the pawnshops.  There are some really good deals.  Stick w/ known brands that have quality (shimino, etc) components.  I would highly suggest front suspension.  Depending on where you're riding, it will make your descent much safer, faster, and comfortable. Also get some of the tube protectors that line the inside of your tires.... they act as an extra barrier to punctures.  250$ should get you more than enough bike.  I got a really nice Giant (sold for about 600 new) for 185 3 years ago.

[KillBilly]

I have several mountain bikes. I prefer the Giant brand. Trek is good and their are many more. I have special skewers in my back wheels to pull a Bob trailer with. Cheap is not always best, they don't allow the quickest adjustments or tire changes, seat height, etc. Anyway, that's my opinion

I won't go cheap again. I picked up a couple of pawn shop bikes for some friends. they didn't last a week. My Giants have disk breaks comfortable seats, everything is easly adjustable, and they will both pull a trailer. And they are still in like new shape because they are taken ocare of. Also you want a wider high flotation tire on the front if you can. BMX style narrow on the back for traction wider on the front for handling. I know you'll do what ever you want but you ask for help, take it or leave it.

[Ray]

Disc breaks would be a good idea if you are trucking a load. Otherwise if you're not then they are probably superfluous.

[DeKuma]

I found the disc brakes to be great when it is wet.  Otherwise they are pretty much not worth the added expense, but hey, what do I know.  I am too fat and lazy to have even ridden it more than once or twice....

[jackelope]

i just sent my trek in to the bike shop for a going over and tune up to get ready for riding and hunting.

[Jackjr]

Giant for me

[Dman]

 I have a Specialized I packed a large buck out with last year. Great mid-range bike, I paid around $375.00. Do ask about load rating's if your packing gear, etc. for hunting on the bike, otherwise you may be in for a long hike back to the gate.

[Ray]

I'd buy a used bike if I was in the market. There are tons of them on Craigslist every day. Just don't get ghetto stuff. Fat tires, strong rims and frame should work just fine. I would not invest more than 200 bucks on a bike for hunting.

[jackelope]

i paid 400 for my trek about 7-8 years ago. on the first day i had it i taco'd the back wheel. it got a $180 back wheel put on it about 24 hours after i bought it to support my large self.
so far so good.