GT Avalanche 1.0

	GT Avalanche 1.0 $840 2/06 - Still a couple of 2005s in the shop.
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Notable features at this price	Lockout on fork, hydraulic brakes, Shimano M520 click-in pedals. All these things are serious upgrades over last year's bike.
A word about GT frames	We've liked GT MTB frame design and construction since they made the move from BMX in 1989. These 6061 heat-treated Aluminum frames are light, but not the lightest around. They are the toughest you can buy, and everyone will tell you that. GT pioneered reinforced head tubes and gusseted, oversized frame tubes that are now industry standard. This frame also boasts a sophisticated hydroformed down tube for strength and light weight. Finally, the rear fork ends are precision aligned and the disc brake mounts are machined after welding so that the mechanic's job of setting up the brakes goes the way you'd want it to. If only they were all like this.
Hardware overview	Aluminum frame, Rock Shox J3 fork with adjustable preload, rebound damping and lockout. LX/Deore 27 speed, Hayes Sole hydraulic disc brakes front & rear.
Why we like this bike	It's just a sensible machine for a real world price. It's the least expensive bike with real stuff people would choose to put on their bikes. Cheaper bikes have copies of this stuff.
Who is this bike for?	Trail riders who have had a basic bike and worn it out, but aren't looking to step up to a $1000-plus, XT-equipped dream bike. A chunky, fun, low-maintenance cross-country ride for the performance conscious. Someone who gets wet and muddy often. Riders who break or wear out bikes. If you are just dying to have hydraulic disc brakes but want to tilt things a little away from bombproof and more towards racy and lightweight, you can also choose the excellent Gary Fisher Tassajara Disc.
Sizes available	16,18,20 in.