MTB for my little sis

[αdαmsκι]

I realise there aren't many people into mountain bikes on this fourm, but it's worth a try. My parents are thinking of getting my sister a mountain bike and are asking me for advice. However, my knowledge of mountain bikes is no longer up to date, seeing as ridge steel frames, bar ends and V-brakes are what I consider the norm for a cross-country bike and I've lost touch with groupsets since it was STX, STX-RC, LX, XT, XTR.  Hmm....

Anyway, this Giant Arete is one of the things they're thinking of & they've found a 2008 model for £500 (opposed to £700). I imagine she'll be using it on forest tracks, such as Coed y Brenin and on road as well. Narrow, steep, technical singletracks are likely to be avoided.  Does anyone have opinions on the bike in question or suggests for something else? Ta.

[bikenerd]

The Giant looks good.  Maybe a bit over priced at £700, but on the nail at £500.
Other brands to look at: Specialized, Trek and Kona all do women's specific bikes.  Mrs Nerd has a Trek 4500 from a number of years ago.  A bit heavy bit rides well (so I've been told, it's like a BMX for me! )

Look for: a Rockshox fork (they are the best in terms of reliability and ride at the budget end) of about 100mm travel, hydraulic disc brakes and Deore components.

Also look for a slackish head angle, under 70 deg as opposed to something racy (usually 70 to 72deg), unless she's going to race.

[αdαmsκι]

Thanks for that, it's most useful; I'll pass on the info.