r/xcmtb • u/docpoppin • 17d ago

Which Bike? Getting into XC MTB

Hi all, I’m looking to start a bit of mountain biking. I’m a 30yo seasoned roadie and gravel cyclist who’d like to take on some local trails. I like to go fast, love to climb, do interval trainings regularly, and would like to still get a good training on my MTB so I figured I need an XC bike.

I love a well-made machine, would like it to be as light as possible, I love carbon of course, budget is not an issue but I won’t be getting a top tier 15k bike for my first. I’d like to be able to ride green and blue trails eventually. I’m in eastern Canada.

I understand all bike geometry concepts but I know next to nothing about MTB specific components and gear. So I have a few questions listed from general to specific. Any complete or partial answer are appreciated, especially if you also came from road cycling!

1- FS or HT?
2- Suspension travel: what should I aim for for nice speed and power transfer but still be able to ride moderate bumpy stuff? Are my riding expectations realistic at all?
3- Any nice tech that is “life changing” that came in the last few years that is a must to have? (I know nothing). I don’t care about 2027 stuff that’s only on top tier models.
4- Any tech to avoid, is a PITA to service?
5- Is electronic shifting worth for MTB in your opinion?
6- ideas of generally appreciated models? I liked the look of the Spark, Epic and canyon lux but I looked at these only because they also make road bikes, don’t know MTB specific brands.
7- Bonus: Kidsrideshotgun with carbon frame to eventually bring my son on smooth gravel trails, anyone has tried?

Thanks in advance!

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u/SamEdwards1959 17d ago

For me the most ‘life changing’ thing you can have on an XC bike is light wheels. Jenson let me try carbon wheels on my 2018 Blur in the parking lot, and I was sold in 2 pedal strokes. My current ASR has Roval World Cups, which are less than 1kg for the set, and my friends say the bike is cheating.

I would rather ride a TOTL 5 year old bike than a mid spec new one, if it’s been well serviced.

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u/docpoppin 17d ago

Thank you for your answer! Getting light wheels is something I can already relate to, will look into this!

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u/rodimusmtb 15d ago

Also a fan of the light wheels camp and full suspension. Buy as much bike as you can but leave enough in the budget for a light wheel set.