Written By: FLOW Mountain Bike

Finding the right bike under $2,000 AUD can be a challenge. Many in this price range bikes will look similar, with key differences hidden a little deeper that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. 

Primarily targeted at first-time mountain bikers, the sub $2,000 AUD category includes an interesting mix of well-known brands and some that aren’t as commonly seen in the local market. To hit such a comparatively low price point, these bikes do often have compromises, so if you see one flashy component that is being put up in lights, take a close look at the rest of the spec sheet.

This also brings up the question of mountain bikes from places like Big W and Anaconda. Avoid these like the plague. While they may have an attractive price tag, the frame and components hanging off of them are not up to the task, and they are often assembled by folks who aren’t bike mechanics.

I have been running a junior mountain bike program for the past eight years, and have seen many riders start their journey on under-equipped bikes. It can be dangerous to take a bike that is not suited to proper mountain bike trails out riding regularly as wheels, forks and frames can fail in a catastrophic fashion.

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Silverback Slade Comp

Another dedicated 29er, the Silverback Slade, offers an alternative to the more common brands here in Aus. It features a full Shimano Cues drivetrain with a 10-speed shifter, Boost hub spacing and Shimano hydraulic brakes. While it has a 130mm Suntour fork like the Polygon, this version has larger diameter stanchions, an upgraded damper and performs significantly better.

While many entry-level hardtails feature an XC race geometry, the Slade is a contemporary trail hardtail designed to offer good versatility and stability for riders getting into mountain biking. Silverback also specs a dropper posts — yewww! Along with Boost hub spacing front and rear, that helps make it a worthy contender for your hard-earned money. Plus, look at that razzle dazzle paint job!

We tested one of the higher-spec models last year and were impressed with the geometry and traction the Slade offered. Be sure to check out the full review.