Would you guys be so kind as to school me on mountain bikes? All the info on the manufacturer websites is pretty overwhelming and probably not even applicable to me.
Looking to pick up a used one for general trail riding that encompasses a little bit of everything.
What are the pros/cons of 27.5" vs 29" wheels?
Do I even need a carbon frame? The price seems to goes nuts with these.
If I'm in between bike sizes, is it better to go with the larger one or smaller one?
After doing some research, it looks like a Santa Cruz Tallboy might be a good middle of the road bike for my uses. Am I on track or way off?
Is Santa Cruz a good brand?
Any other brands I should be looking at that offers a good product at a good value?
What are the pros/cons of 27.5" vs 29" wheels?
None. It's all preference these days. Even for shorter people. If you want to be able to go fast in XC, or ride over things a bit easier, then go with 29's. If you want better cornering and control, go with 27.5's. They used to say, just a few years ago, the 29ers were for taller people, and that 27's better for shorter people, that is no longer true. Like I said, it's all preference.
Do I even need a carbon frame? The price seems to goes nuts with these.
You do not need a carbon frame. If I had a choice between two equally priced bikes, one carbon with crappier components, and one aluminum frame with good components, I would buy the aluminum one. Good components are your friend. That is where all the research comes in. I can name 10 brands that are going to make you a great bike in all different formats (XC, enduro, downhill), but what is comes down to is the level of components that come on the bike and the price. Most companies make a good bike, especially the top 10. I remember when I was getting into MTB and my buddy who was a mechanic said, "spend money now, or spend it later." He was right. You get what you pay for. Not saying that bike prices are reasonable, but it doesn't take away from that fact. My first few bikes, I was always upgrading.
If I'm in between bike sizes, is it better to go with the larger one or smaller one?
Always go with the bigger bike. I honestly think the sizing is almost always wrong, and they are all over the place. Test ride a few at a shop and go with the size that feels right. I am 5'7 and my enduro and ebike are both Larges. My XC and gravel are both mediums, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy a Large if it felt OK. My son is the same size as I am, he is getting a Large Scott 920 this week for XC racing.
After doing some research, it looks like a Santa Cruz Tallboy might be a good middle of the road bike for my uses. Am I on track or way off?
I had a SC Tallboy that I bought new in 2018. I just recently sold it. I loved that bike. If you aren't going to be doing a lot of rocky, tech, downhill stuff, then it's truly a great bike. With that being said, all the good companies make a comparable bike, just find the best deal. If you want more travel, get a SC 5010, more, a hightower or bronson. Basically with Santa Cruz, pick you tire size, then you travel, then your kit (ie, components). They are all pretty much the same bike.
Is Santa Cruz a good brand?
Heck Yea! I love Santa Cruz bikes. I truly think they put great research into thier bikes, and make a great product. Others do also, but they are one of my top picks, but they do come at a price. Look for sales online from october thru december if you really want a Santa Cruz.
Any other brands I should be looking at that offers a good product at a good value?
Too many to list. Lots of great bikes out thier. You can't lose.
Hope this helps!