Which £250 - £400 used mountain bike?

[Drive it fix it repeat]

Been meaning to get back into cycling for a few years now, used to cycle for work so was fairly competent. Times changed and the hobby got dropped. What with loads of time on my hands and the beautiful weather lately I've been getting out once a day for the last week or so.

Currently using a cheap apollo mountain bike, its crap tbh and I want something that feels decent and will be reliable. After something secondhand to get more for my money. Will be used for easy trails and country lanes, 10 mile ish rides probably.

Seeing loads of carreras for that kind of money but I've been told the components aren't the best. Have been told that boardman is decent and I'm seeing a few around the top of my budget. Thoughts please?

[Drive it fix it repeat]

v15ben said:

I'd look for the best Calibre or Pinnacle in your budget.
I've had entry level MTBs from both (paid £329 and £375 new) and they've been great.
Better spec than Carreras too.
Look for a Calibre Two Two if you can.

Thank you, I will.

Should have also added I'm about 5 foot 8-9 so not the tallest, from an initial Google it may appear the two two is aimed for someone taller, shame as it looks and sounds spot on. I'll keep reading though.

Edited by Drive it fix it repeat on Saturday 11th April 16:36

[Drive it fix it repeat]

Any more suggestions anyone please?

[aka_kerrly]

There arf some pretty decent looking Boardman bikes available in your price range, the front suspension hybrid range would probably be better suited than a full on mtb if you are on mostly light tracks/roads

[castex]

Specialized are good quality and easy to find. Buy a light one.