Best Value Trail Hardtails for 2021 (Under $1500)

Overview

• Phil from Trail Talk: Presents a guide to the best value trail hardtails under $1500 for 2021.
• Coverage: Five top picks and five honorable mentions.
• Other Resources: Includes links to budget hardtails under $750.

Criteria for Selection

• Features:
  • Tapered head tube
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Air fork
  • Dropper post
  • Boost thru-axles (front and rear)
  • 1x drivetrain
  • Fork travel of 120-140 mm
  • Advanced geometry (longer reach, steeper seat angles, head angles around 65-67 degrees)
• Performance to Price Ratio: Focus on delivering high-end features at a lower cost.

Top Five Picks

1. Norco Fluid HT1

• Price: $1799 AUD / $1399 USD
• Geometry:
  • 470 mm reach (size L)
  • 66.5° head angle
  • 74.5° seat angle
• Features:
  • Size-specific wheel sizes (27.5" to 29")
  • X-Fusion RC32 fork (120 mm travel)
  • Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain
• Considerations:
  • Upgrade brakes (Tektro HD M275)
  • Potential tire upgrade for more grip.

2. Veda Santiago VR

• Price: $1999 AUD / $1299 USD / £1099 GBP
• Spec Highlights:
  • Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork (140 mm)
  • Shimano M5100 11-speed drivetrain
  • WTB tubeless-ready rims with soft Magic Mary tires
• Considerations:
  • Geometry more suited for agile, short rides.

3. Giant Fathom 2 29er

• Price: $1899 AUD / $1300 USD / £1249 GBP
• Geometry:
  • 66° head angle
  • 75° seat angle
  • 470 mm reach (size L)
• Spec Highlights:
  • Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain
  • Maxxis Aggressor and DHF tires
• Considerations:
  • Upgrade brakes (Tektro TDK143)

4. Merida Big Trail 500

• Price: $1849 AUD / £1250 GBP (Not available in the US)
• Geometry:
  • 65.5° head angle
  • 75.5° seat angle
  • 455 mm reach
• Features:
  • RockShox Recon fork (140 mm)
  • Shimano Deore M5100 11-speed drivetrain
• Considerations:
  • Upgrade brakes (Tektro M275)

5. Marin San Quentin 2

• Price: $1299 USD / $1899 AUD / £1245 GBP
• Geometry:
  • 65° head angle
  • 464 mm reach (size L)
• Features:
  • RockShox Recon fork (130 mm)
  • 11-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain
• Considerations:
  • Upgrade brakes (Shimano MT-201)

Honorable Mentions

• White 529 V3
  • Strong geometry, Rockshox Recon, Shimano Deore.
• Rocky Mountain Growler 40
  • Slightly over budget, slack 64° head angle.
• Nukeproof Scout 290 Comp
  • Good spec, slightly over budget.
• Specialized Fuse
  • Decent option for a bike shop brand.
• Ragley Bikes
  • Awaiting 2021 models.

Conclusion

• Target Audience: Ideal for those keen on trail riding without frequent repairs.
• Additional Options: Consider cheaper models in these line-ups or check out budget guides.
• Engagement: Encourages viewers to subscribe, like, and comment.