Hey... I just getting into this mountain bike thing and I'm looking for something around the $300 dollar range to hold me over for a year or so until I'm out of college and can actually make some money. I have been looking at stuff like the Trek 3700, Specialized Hardrock XC, and now recently the K2 Zed 1.0. I have heard great things about their higher end stuff, but how is their entry level bikes? Any quick advice would be great!

Hey... I just getting into this mountain bike thing and I'm looking for something around the $300 dollar range to hold me over for a year or so until I'm out of college and can actually make some money. I have been looking at stuff like the Trek 3700, Specialized Hardrock XC, and now recently the K2 Zed 1.0. I have heard great things about their higher end stuff, but how is their entry level bikes? Any quick advice would be great! K2 makes great bikes, IMO. Most underrated company out there. I would definately add them to your list of bikes to check out. REi is having a sale this week as well, 20% off all regular priced bikes. They deal K2.

It's mroe important to get a bike that fits you well, and handles well for your style. Ride everything you can get your leg over.

K2 makes great bikes, IMO. Most underrated company out there. I would definately add them to your list of bikes to check out. REi is having a sale this week as well, 20% off all regular priced bikes. They deal K2.


I totally agree with you on this one. But if you have a little extra cash, get the Zed 2.0. I have ridden the 1.0 and it works great but the 2.0 has just some extras that you may or may not like better.

Definitely look at Jamis....

Hey... I just getting into this mountain bike thing and I'm looking for something around the $300 dollar range to hold me over for a year or so until I'm out of college and can actually make some money. I have been looking at stuff like the Trek 3700, Specialized Hardrock XC, and now recently the K2 Zed 1.0. I have heard great things about their higher end stuff, but how is their entry level bikes? Any quick advice would be great!
I have a ZED 1.0... mostly stock, and tow a long trailer with it... the bike is very reliable, comfortable, and great frame...here's my bike with trailer.

I've got a Zed 2.0 (o.k, o.k. it's been "upgraded) Great starter bike. But it didn't hold up to my 210# bashing it. Taco'd the cheap Weinmann 17 rims. Replaced w/ Sun Rhyno Lites :) El Cheapo RST forked crapped out after a year. Replaced w/ a Marzocchi Atom Race :). All kinds of numerous upgrades. Cracked the frame after 2 years. K2 had a warrenty replacement to my LBS within 10 day's. Excellent warrenty/ customer service!!

I'd buy another one, based on that last part alone!

Dave