Marin Bear Valley

Advantages: Strong, light, looks nice
Disadvantages: Chain stays can cause chain suck and problems with quick release pins

...For those of you out looking for a new frame, i'd recommend purchasing a Marine Quake frame. I bought a marine Quake 9 a few months back and its certianly given me value for money, and is one of the most sturdy bikes i've had. The Marine Quake frame comes in three colour scheme those being a combination of grey yellow red and blue. The Quake 9 model has a yellow and grey paint job and looks rather plush. The frame comes in a range of sizes, but being a dirt jumping/Dual bike those sizes are generally small (my own model is a 13" frame). The tubing is triangular in shape, which from your science lessons will tell you adds to strength. Where the top and down tubes meet, extra triangular plates have been welded on to give the bike some strength (especially for those of you thinking of running tripple crown forks). The chain stays... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Covers everything for ages 4-94, lead rein to three day event
Disadvantages: I just wish it was closer to home (but it's still worth the travel!)

...Trent Valley Equestrian Centre is a fantastic riding school and livery/competition yard - very friendly, very professional, very welcoming. Our daughter would live there if she could even though she doesn't have her own pony! From lead rein to three day event, from age 4 to 94 this is the place to learn to ride, to improve your riding and compete at every level. TVEC view riding as a complete activity including horse care and stable management - badges, tests and assessments at every level - individual badges, Pony Club, ABRS, BHS, NVQ - you name it, they do it. Every month it seems there is a new development - something small like a new stable door or something big like the new 1800 sq m International Level Indoor Arena to complement the four floodlit ourdoor arenas. If you don't believe me, try it for yourself at one of their regular... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Great bike, unbeatable value and an exellant warranty.
Disadvantages: Fork needs to be upgraded.

...Marin has once again succeeded in producing a top quality full suspension bike! This bike just keeps getting better, this year it is an unbelievable £900, and has a cheap hope upgrade option. Even though the nature of the bike is downhill, it has the ability to be ridden uphill thanks to the active traction control. When you pedal hard the bike does not bob at all, it is very smooth and has a plush 6.5" travel. The only thing which you can grumble at is the front fork which I really do strongly recommend upgrading to complement the rear shock. The bike is very durable (lifetime guarantee on swingarm bearings) and has an EXALLENT warranty. This bike really is built by the experts, Marin have offered an unbeatable package!... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful