Originally Posted by montanasoftware

Hi:

I know it can be frustrating to recommend a bike to a new person who doesn't know much about MTBs, but I'm looking to get a decent MTB for about $2000.00 or so. I could possibly be talked into spending more. Unfortunately, I haven't done much mountain biking ... I've been mostly a road guy. Here are some things I can say about how I want to ride:

- I'm interested in bikepacking and dirt road/ singletrack touring.
- I want to ride the Grand Divide Mountain Bike Route ... from Banff, Canada to the Mexican border. Mostly dirt & gravel roads with some singletrack.
- I love steel and hate aluminum. Ideally, I'd like a Reynolds 853 or equivalent like OX air hardening.
- I care more about the frame than the components
- I understand road geometry, but MTB geometry seems more complicated. I definitely want a laid-back seat tube angle. I can't seem to find one less than 73. I would prefer 72.
- I'm interested in Ti, but I've never ridden it.
- I think a hardtail would be fine, as I don't intend to get into really serious technical challenges on singletrack.
- I used to be a bike mechanic, so I like the idea of buying a used bike and doing some repairs if necessary. I think you get a better bike for your budget that way ... I just don't know what to look for.

Any recommendations? Thanks in advance for your help.