Mountain Bikes

[Mr. Pockets]

My brother is looking for a good bike in the $1,000 range. I'm trying to help him out, and I have some suggestions, but I'm a little conflicted concerning my recommendations.

The reason I'm conflicted is the apparent drop in quality of components, and the further mixing of component lines. I'm seeing base Deore levers (and even lower-end bottom brackets) mixed with XT rear derailleurs. And I knw the base Deore crap is just that - crap. It's sloppy. It's weak. It doesn't shift consistently on a flat surface, much less grinding uphill.

I have a mix of LX and XT parts on my bike from the late '90s. Most of it has been ridden - and I mean really ridden - for 8 seasons. It worked flawlessly until late last season, when it all seemed to hit a wall and start breaking. I just don't see that sort of quality any more and that bothers me.

I know some of you are bikers, and I wanted your opinions on bikes in my brother's price range. I'm looking at Rockhopper / Stumpjumper models from Specialized and the F400 and F600 from Cannondale. I've been happy with both of those brands, but I know he'll get better components for his money from Specialized.

Trek is unacceptable, so don't even say it. Their ultra-expensive models are very nice, but anything in their line for less than $1,500 is total garbage.