Buying a mountainbike, confused ?

I am going to buy my first mountainbike, nothing special..i just want a good quality bike suitable for a beginner like me, that will last quite some time (years) without problems.

There are two bicycles currently on my mind:

Option A: 21 speed, shimano V-brakes, double walled rims, front suspensions, 2 yr guarantee on the frame, ladies frame, 250euros, brand name is Ideal (it's a Greek brank) and the model is called Strike.

Option B: 21 speed, shimano V-brakes, normal rims, front suspensions, 2 yr guarantee on the frame, one-size-fits-all frame, 191euros, brand name is Esperia (an italian brand) and the model is called Torpado

I have heard rumours that Esperia import certain bicycle parts from developing countries (where parts are produced cheaply but are very low quality), but I am not quite sure if this is true..

...

Which would you buy?! If you should answer, I'd rather you explain why you've chosen that option. Thanks everyone for your help :)

Since I live in Malta, I'm not really worried that its not a *REAL* mountain bike cos..well, we have no mountains!! :p all we have are either normal tarmac roads, or rural dusty roads rull of potholes and those small elusive stones that people/bikes slip on. The Ideal bikes that I saw were being sold at a specialist bicycle shop, they're the only guys that get Ideal bikes (they're the authorized dealers) so 99% they also get spare parts no problem.

regarding option B, the moment they told me it was a one size fits all kind of bike, a warning signal went on in my head...but i wasn't sure if i was exaggerating things. I'm only just a beginner in cycling. that's why I decided to ask you guys :)

Excellent response so far, please keep giving me your opinions people!

Lets go with your first question last. The vast majority of parts come from Asian sources. The most common, on 95% of the worlds bikes, is Shimano. There are also brands like DNP (on very poor quality bikes) and SRAM. Within each brand there are varying qualities of components and are usually based on the grade of the bike. Regarding Shimano, you should not consider any bikes equipped with TX, TY, Tourney, or Mega Range components. For DNP, avoid all bikes using this brand. SRAM is a bit trickier and I would need to know the model of components.

Again, the vast majority of bikes are built in China or Taiwan, with a small number from the US, UK, and Europe. Even though the name may be reminiscent of Italy or other part of Europe you can rest assured that if the bike isn't actually made in Asia, most of the parts are. Even if the bike states "Made in Italy" or something like that, most parts come from Asian sources and the bike is painted and assembled, in this example, in Italy. This being said, you should have no worries about purchasing a Taiwanese or Chinese built bike. Their factories are generally thoroughly modern and have excellent trained staff.

Your "Option A" bike is DEFINITELY made in Taiwan, by Ideal. They also have a Chinese factory but trade restrictions to Europe force the bikes to be made in Taiwan instead. The company is one of the largest in the world and among the most respected. However, it is not a mountain bike... it is referred to as an "all terrain" bike, intended for riding on the road or smooth trails... not for mountain trails. For 鈧?50 you'll get a bike that will be OK provided it is well maintained. If you are purchasing this from a bike shop it will be OK. If not, I recommend that a bike shop check it out BEFORE you ride.

Your "Option B" is not a good idea. The "one size fits all" is a clear indication that the bike is very low end.

once again, the user formerly known as mirageguitarworks tells it like it is, with a polite and poignant answer. once again, some numpty gives him the thumbs down. don't worry, I got your back, again..

thumbs up!

I concur; any bike that is listed as 'one size fits all' is not a bike to be considered.

Specialized is known for road bikes but they make the best mountain bikes in the world. Any full suspension frame specialized mountain bike is worth buying, although they are on the pricy side. The absolute best is any S-Works specialized
Number 2 is tied with avalanche and shcimano.
3 is probably trek.

For the beginer I would recommend a rockhopper or hardrock by Specialized. It sounds lame, but it isn't. It is a 3/4 suspension and made especialy for mild trails, or around the neighborhood ex: hopping curbs, hitting ledges. They aren't real expensive either. However, you should by\uy spare parts from schimano. They are excellent.
I think a 10 to 18 speed bike is plenty, but if you want 21 speeds i will tell u a secret. Always buy a bike with less gears, then add on. Say you want 18 speeds. Buy a 16 speed bike, and the buy a 2 speed extension by schimano.

This bike has a warranty and it will last for years to come. Plus, if you ever make it to some mountains, you will be pleased with the bikes performanced. Much better than say a walmart brand.

Hope you get on some trails soon. :)