Originally Posted by
Sealth
I'm planning on getting my first mountain bike, and I need some help navigating the scene.
I'll be doing some mild/medium trail riding and winter commuting with the bike. I want to spend as little as possible initially, ideally less than $1000. I think a hardtail perfectly suits my purposes, plus I like how they look. I want something I can continuously upgrade and still be happy with in 5+ years.
Based on what you are going to do, nothing wrong with a Rockhopper Elite 29er or anything in that range. Personally, I might look to get a winter commute wheels and rigid fork one day with you are not going to be riding trails for months.
Somehow I doubt a dropper post is needed on those railroad crossings.
John