Merida Matts 40-V (2014)

The Matts 40-V from Merida is a great "first" mountain bike for folks new to the off-road sport. The bike handles with stability, and the build kit is solid, if not flashy. This affordable rig features a lightweight alloy frame and a Suntour fork. Reliable Shimano components take care of shifting tasks, and parts from SunRace, Merida, and KMC handle the rest. Cable-actuated V brakes offer confident braking.