Probably a recurring topic...

[Anarkhy]

So sorry in advance, but I'm looking for a decent commuting bike that'll handle some light off-road use.

I've read through the sticky and picked up on "ridgid" mountain bikes, how do you spot them? They sound perfect, but from my searching/reviewing I've not seen that term used, probably because Evans and random reviewers don't cater to the hardcore, hence me being here. Educate me, how do I find my ideal commuting and occasional off-road bike?

The budget is up to £1000.

Thanks

 

[Randochap]

"Hardtail" is the preferred term. Do you really need an MTB though?

You could get a very nice bike for £1000.

 

[Steve Austin]

It depends what kind of off roading you want to do. if you are only ever going to venture off road every now and then, and ride mostly on road, then a cyclocrossser might be working looking at. Essentially a roadbike that can take a knobbly tyre for a bit of grip. Look for a Speciaized tricross for the right kind of thing.
The alternative is a rigid MTB or a hardtail with slick tyres for road riding, but MTB's ain't the best for riding on the road

 

[Anarkhy]

Good advice, the Specialized Tricross has some glowing reviews.

I don't really "need" a mountain bike as such, the main reason is to get to work and back, work on fitness and save money in the process. But I have an urge to get out and ride some countryside. nothing more than dirt paths, loose surfaces and the odd small curb-like drop.

Are the Cyclocross bikes the same as "hybrid"? I have a Scott Sportster P4 2009 Hybrid Bike in mind and they seem similar by looks at least.

 

[Steve Austin]

not quite. Hybrids are generally flat barred bikes. the tricross has got drop bars.

the speedster would be fine imo for riding off road on the type of stuff you suggest, but a tricross would be better for road riding if you get on with the drop bars

 

[Eddy_Mc]

Now I'm not fully versed on every bike on the market and there are plenty of people on here that have more knowledge than I but may I ask a question, why go as high as 1k?. Yes you will get a wonderful bike but then so would £500-600.

Something like the Specialized Crosstail Sport 2010 (if you want hardtail go for the Sirrus) As I said 1k will get you a wonderful bike but then so will £500-600 if you pick the right one. The bike I pointed out will last you for years if you look after it, and ruducing the money you pay will allow you to buy a repair stand etc to allow you to keep it in tip top condition.

 

[fossyant]

Good pointers there Eddy. Tools etc cost a fair bit too. The OP may have budget for tools....

TBH I 'collected' tools as I needed to replace a part, certainly the specialist tools. A workstand is a delight...I now have two, after over 20 years without one.