Hi there,

I'm a relatively novice biker and but am looking into getting one for recreation/exercise/hobby. Not really meant for commuting.

​

I've been researching bike information trying to make an informed decision. I'm a bit torn because I feel pulled towards road bikes, but I know Bellingham is home to some prime mountain biking. I've never been mountain biking and am not really sure if I'd like it. I like the idea of working my way up to biking long distances or travelling a long distance w/ a pack for a day trip. I know this might be possible w/ a mountain bike but I also know they tend to be heavier. When I think of mountain biking, I imagine people bombing downhill trails at high speeds.

​

Anyway, I'm looking for input from local bikers and their experience in the Bellingham area. Road bikers -- do you enjoy the trips around here? Do you do mostly paved road or gravel? What are some of your favorite stretches to do?

​

Mountain bikers -- do you find your bike reasonably useful for medium to longer rides on road when not on the trail? Other than Galbrath, where do you like to go with your bike? I don't know much about the variability of kinds of rides that come with mountain biking.

​

Also, if you have any advice on buying a bike that'd be great. I'm willing to spend around $1,000 with $1,200 being my hard limit.

​

Thank you for any advice and help!