29er Hardtail or a Full Suspension All Mountain

[Brendine]

Which would be best for riding a mountain and also riding the roads with a trailer with my 1year old son? I am looking in the <$1300ish range and a GT, Diamondback or Canondale.

[Metamorphic]

In that price range there's not a lot of particularly interesting FS bikes. On the other hand the HT 29er is a more capable off road performer than most people really need. The HT is much more of an all arounder, a better fit for your price range, and a better road hybrid choice.

[SpecializedWindsor]

I agree with Metamorphic. Hardtails are much better suited for roads than a full suspension. You should be able to find some decent hardtails under $1000.

[heyyall]

You may not be able to pull a trailer with a full suspension. Check how the trailer mounts and the pivots around rear hub on the bike. For example, on my bike you can't make the connection.

If you do fall in love with a full suspension bike (which is not a bad thing) and the trailer won't work, you can get a beater bike to pull the trailer.

[Brendine]

Thanks for all your help. 29er wins!

[mimi1885]

Buy a cheaper bike then add the trailer to that bike to ride in the park with your one year old. Mtb may offer strength but clamping and torquing it the wrong way it would just snap.

There are quite a few of the FS 26 in your price range especially this time of year just shop around. Giant Anthem, Trance. Cannnondale Rize 120-140, Trek Fuel EX, GT.

[r1enthusiast]

29er all the way. unless your doing some serious downhill. I have been riding my giant talon 1 29er for about 5 months and its awesome. The components are great for the price of 850.

[b-kul]

29er ht sounds good for your planned usage (and budget). i would also get a pair of slicks to throw on for when you are on the road.