trek 4 series 4300 disc 2011

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Trek 4300 Review: Is It a Good Bike or Waste of Money?

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Trek 4300 belongs among one of the most iconic mountain bikes .

It was introduced in 2000 and kept in Trek’s lineup until 2014. So, it’s a pretty old bike already.

The question is:

Is Trek 4300 a good bike?

By today’s standards, Trek 4300 it’s outdated. However, many still ride it today because of its sturdy aluminum frame, quality components from Shimano (like brakes, shifters, derailleurs), front fork suspension, and relaxed geometry, allowing a comfortable ride.

Are you keen to learn more about this iconic bike?

Let’s dive in!

Is Trek 4300 a Good Bike?

Trek 4300 was a very popular bike worldwide thanks to its quality and reliability.

Its price slowly increased from around $359.99 in 2000 to $549.99 in 2011. ( Source )

So, it was a great entry-level mountain bike suitable for beginners, commuters, and people who wanted a bike they could rely on.

It was available in multiple sizes (13, 16, 18, 19.5, 21″…), and it came in different colors and slightly modified components every year.

Trek 4300 was sold with rim and disc brakes and also an option for women with specific geometry, making it easier for women to get on.

The last generation of Trek 4300 was released in 2014. Then, it was discontinued and replaced by newer lines.

Pros and Cons of Trek 4300

Here I summarized the pros and cons of Trek 4300.

Pros of Trek 4300

• Quality and sturdy aluminum frame
• Available for men and women
• Excellent price-value ratio
• Comfortable geometry, allowing upright riding position

Cons of Trek 4300

• 26-inch wheels
• 3X drivetrain (2X and 1X became more popular thanks to their simplicity)

To fully understand the pros and cons, I recommend reading the following section where I compare its features with today’s mountain bikes.

Main Features of Trek 4300

Let’s now dive deeper into Trek’s 4300 components so you better understand its value.

Aluminum Frame

One of the main features of every bike is its frame. All Treks 4300 were based on an aluminum frame.

Aluminum frames are durable, reasonably lightweight, and affordable. That’s why aluminum is still one of the most popular bike frame materials .

Trek 4300 can take a lot of abuse. In the end, it’s a mountain bike, so it must be durable to withstand rough terrain.

26-Inch Wheels

Trek 4300 was equipped with 26-inch wheels, which are agile and allow you to accelerate quickly but are not as fast, stable, and comfortable as 27.5 or 29-inch wheels.

You probably won’t find adult mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels today. However, kids’ mountain bikes, dirt bikes, etc., may still use them.

The mountain bike market shifted toward 27.5 and 29″ wheels. They are more comfortable, stable, and faster.

If you can, I recommend trying them in person so you can feel the riding difference.

Trek worked closely with Shimano, which supplied components like the shifters, brakes*, front and rear derailleurs, etc.

*Some models came with Tektro brakes.

Surprisingly, some components were supplied by other manufacturers. For example, SRAM supplied cassettes, Suntour forks, and cranks.

Other components like the saddle, seatpost, handlebar, stem, etc., were made by Trek’s brand Bontrager.

By the way, the Trek’s 4300 handlebar was pretty narrow (600-620mm). Today’s mountain bikes come with 700 to 800mm.

The older generations of Trek 4300 came with a 3×8spd drivetrain, offering 24 gears. This range is wide enough for fast downhill and steep sections.

However, the disadvantage of the 3X drivetrain is its complexity. It’s heavier, more things can go wrong, and there is a high chance of cross-chaining.

That’s why 2X and 1X drivetrains are more popular nowadays.

Suspension Fork

Trek 4300 is a standard hardtail mountain bike with a suspended front fork (unlike the Trek 800 , for example).

Entry-level mountain bikes don’t offer too long suspension travel. It ranges from 70 to 100mm. Newer Trek 820 is one of the examples.

So, it can absorb some bumps, but it’s not enough for hard trails or downhill.

Treks 4300 were equipped with different forks from manufacturers like InSync or Suntour. However, due to the low price of the bike, these forks were pretty low-end, and you shouldn’t expect much from them.

Trek 4300 Specifications

Below, I summarize the most important technical specifications. Remember, they differ based on the year:

• Frame material: Aluminum
• Weight: ±13 kg (28.7 lbs) depending on frame size, brakes, and year made
• Wheel size: 26-inch
• Brakes: Rim or disc
• Groupset: Shimano Alivio, Altus, Acera
• Gears: 3×8spd, 3×9spd (11-32T or 11-34T cassette)
• Fork: InSync Grind, Suntour
• Colors: Differ based on the year

The following pictures show the detailed specifications of the Trek 4300 and Trek 4300 Disc from 2004.

Although the Trek 4300 is a pretty old bike, it’s safe to say it was timeless.

It’s a well-built bike you can rely on, suitable for commuting and rides in terrain.

If you are considering buying it second-hand, aim for a price of up to $250 for mint condition and around $150 for decent condition.

Or, you can check out what mountain bikes Trek sells today. For example, the Trek 820 (also available in step-through option ) is also a mountain bike worth considering.

Trek 4300 FAQ

Trek 4300 mountain bike is still worth it today if you find it in good condition for less than $250. It’s a little outdated (read this entire article for more info) but still ideal for people looking for an affordable and reliable bike for commuting and biking.

Trek 4300 was made between 2000 and 2014.

Trek 4300 weighs ±13 kg (28.7 lbs). Remember, the weight differs based on its size and year made. Also, Trek 4300 with disc brakes is heavier than with rim brakes.

Check out Trek’s official bike archive or Bikepedia.com to compare their pictures with your Trek 4300.

About The Author

Petr Minarik

3 thoughts on “trek 4300 review: is it a good bike or waste of money”.

Great review, thanks!

Can I inflate the Trek 4300 with a Presta pump?

Hi Barry, Yes. Trek 4300 uses Presta valves so you can use any Presta compatible tire pump . – Petr

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Trek 4300 Mountain Bike Review: Is it worth it?

Looking for a reliable and affordable mountain bike that can handle rugged terrain? The Trek 4300 might just be the bike for you. 

As a mountain bike, Trek 4300 is built to take on any adventure. Thanks to a durable aluminum frame, wide range of gears, and powerful brakes. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Trek 4300 mountain bike, its features, and what makes it stand out from the competition. 

Read on to find out if the Trek 4300 is the right mountain bike for you.

Trek 4300 Mountain Bike At A Glance 

Trek 4300 is a hardtail mountain bike with a lightweight and sturdy Alpha aluminum frame, which makes it easy to handle. While the Marlin 5 is made for trail riding, it’s also versatile and can double as a commuter bike. 

The Shimano drivetrain and powerful disc brakes offer great versatility on all types of terrain. While the front suspension provides excellent balance and stability on rougher roads or trails, ensuring smooth rides. 

It also comes with double-walled rims and puncture-resistant 26×2.0″ tires, making it a reliable choice for trail riding. 

Trek 4300 is the perfect combination of affordability and quality, which is a great choice for beginner riders looking to hit the trails.

• Sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame
• Responsive brakes and smooth shifting
• Comfortable riding position
• Adjustable saddle and handlebars
• Complex 3X drivetrain
• Small 26-inch wheels

Unfortunately, this bike has been discontinued, but Trek has impressive newer models with better designs which are excellent alternatives to the 4300 Trek mountain bike. 

We recommend Trek Marlin 5 and Schwinn Traxion as great alternatives, you can scroll down to see our brief review of these bikes. 

Trek 4300 Mountain Bike Features

Frame and fork.

First things first, the frame is a crucial component of any bike. In the case of the Trek 4300, it’s made of aluminum, which is a popular choice due to its durability, affordability, and lightweight. 

In fact, the original 4300 model used Trek’s Alpha Aluminum frame that’s tough enough to handle rugged trails with ease. As the model progressed, Trek introduced the Alpha Gold Aluminum material for the frame of the later versions of the 4300. 

This updated version has a more aggressive race geometry for speed, with internal cable routing for durability, and rack mounts for versatility.

You’ll also find that it has a replaceable derailleur hanger. Now, these upgrades made the bike more versatile and allowed it to handle a wider range of terrain.

Moving on to the fork, the Trek 4300 is a classic hardtail mountain bike with a front fork. This means that the front wheel is equipped with a suspension system that can absorb shocks and vibrations, making for a smoother ride on moderate terrain. 

The suspension fork has 70-100 mm travel, depending on the specific model, and it’s designed to handle mountain trails. However, it’s important to note that the suspension fork isn’t long enough to handle descents on rough trails. 

So while it can certainly absorb some bumps, it’s not enough for really difficult trails or downhill riding. But don’t worry, this bike can still take a lot of abuse. After all, it’s a mountain bike, and it’s designed to handle dirt trails.

Gears and Brakes

Gears and brakes are some of the most important components of a mountain bike, especially if you plan on hitting tough trails or climbing hills. 

Let’s take a closer look at the gear and brake systems on the Trek 4300 mountain bike.

In the first few generations of the Trek 4300, you could find a 3x8spd drivetrain with 24 gears.

But if you’re looking for something a bit more efficient, the later models of the Trek 4300 were fitted with the Shimano Acera M390 9-speed drivetrain. This gives you a wider range of gears for better control on hard trails.

Now, let’s talk about brakes. If you carefully look through all the different versions of the Trek 4300, you’ll find that some of them had rim brakes and some others had disc brakes. 

The older models were fitted with rim brakes, while the later models featured the Shimano M395 hydraulic disc brakes, which gives a much better braking power at a great price. 

Wheels and Tires

Most mountain bikes we see now have 29-inch wheels, but the Trek 4300 had 26-inch wheels and 26×2.20 tires, which actually are very agile and will quickly pick up speed. 

In later models, these tires were improved to be puncture resistant and could withstand increased tire pressure. 

We consider bigger wheels to be better for mountain riding, but small wheels aren’t that bad either because they are more agile, tend to accelerate faster and will easily move around tight corners. And these features are great for technical riding. 

But the bigger 27.5 and 29″ wheels actually provide more stability and comfort, which is why they are now preferred for mountain biking.

Despite the small wheels, the double-walled rims and 32-spoke design of the Trek 4300 are pretty solid and tough enough to withstand years of abuse on the trails.

At the end of the day, the wheels and tires on the Trek 4300 are a great combination for riders who want to tackle technical terrain and need a bike that can handle quick acceleration and tight cornering. 

While the market may be shifting towards larger wheels, the Trek 4300 is still a great option for those who value nimble handling and puncture resistance.

Saddle and Handlebars

The saddle is an important component of any bike, especially when it comes to mountain biking. 

While the standard saddle on the Trek 4300 may not be the most comfortable, the 31.6mm seatpost offers plenty of adjustment for a customized fit. 

You can even upgrade the saddle to one that suits your preferences for maximum comfort.

The handlebars of the Trek 4300 are a different story, though. Made from durable alloy, these handlebars are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. 

With a 31.8mm diameter and 15mm rise, the handlebars provide a comfortable and stable grip while you ride.

The stem of the Trek 4300 is also designed for both comfort and control. With a 31.8mm clamp diameter and a 10-degree rise, the stem ensures a comfortable riding position while keeping you in control of the bike. 

When you combine the Bontrager Riser handlebar and the Bontrager Approved stem on the Trek 4300, you get a comfortable and stable ride. 

Size and weight

When it comes to finding the right fit, the Trek 4300 Mountain Bike has got you covered. With a wide range of frame sizes available, from 13″ to 22.5″, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your body type. 

Actually, you may find sizes ranging from 13, 16, 18, 19.5, 21.5, 23.5″. But since these bikes have been discontinued by Trek, finding them in the exact size you want may be a challenge.

One thing to keep in mind is that the bike weighs around 28.2lbs (12.8 kg), which might not make it the lightest bike on the market. I believe this is due to the front fork, which adds weight but also adds extra shock absorption for a more comfortable ride. 

However, this bike is sturdy enough to support riders up to 265 lbs of body weight.

Ride quality and performance

The Trek 4300 Mountain Bike offers fun and confident rides on the trails, whether you’re hitting the trails or cruising around town. 

While it’s considered an entry-level mountain bike, don’t let that fool you. It’s a reliable bike that can be used for commuting, leisurely rides, or for hitting some challenging trails.

The comfortable riding position and triple chainring setup make it easy to tackle steep hills and rough terrain. Plus, the high-quality suspension system keeps things smooth and comfortable, no matter what kind of surface you’re riding on.

Trek 4300 has durable components that are built to last, so you don’t have to worry about things breaking down quickly. 

The responsive brakes and smooth-shifting gears give you complete control and make riding this bike a breeze. And, even in wet or muddy conditions, the disc brakes offer reliable stopping power.

One of the best things about the Trek 4300 is its versatility. While it’s certainly a capable mountain bike, it’s also a great choice for commuting or everyday riding. 

Best Trek 4300 Alternatives

As Trek 4300 mountain bikes are now discontinued, you cannot buy them brand new. However, Trek has a range of trail bikes that offer superior build quality and performance. 

These models are more advanced and come at a higher price point than the budget options available from brands like Schwinn and Mongoose, but the investment is worth it as the quality is unmatched.

In my opinion, the Trek Marlin 5 and Schwinn Traxion are great alternatives for the Trek 4300 mountain bike.

Trek Marlin 5

Trek Marlin 5 is a trail mountain bike that’s built to gracefully handle daily adventures on rough terrains. It has a lightweight aluminum frame with a 2×8 drivetrain for smooth riding and shifting and powerful hydraulic disc brakes which provide fast and precise stopping. 

While the Marlin 5 is made for trail riding, it’s also versatile and can double as a commuter bike. This bike has a stunning frame with internal routing for the brake and shift cables, which can extend the lifespan of your wires by shielding them from the environment.

It’s the perfect bike for new trail riders and comes in seven frame sizes to fit riders of all heights. Marlin 5 is elegant and comfortable, with a ton of features that are typically reserved for more pricey bikes.

Schwinn Traxion

The Traxion MTB is equipped with a remarkably solid aluminum full-suspension frame that easily picks up speed and maintains it very well.

This bike provides comfortable rides and handles bumps well, regardless of where your trail adventures take you. Thanks to the wide knobby tires, sturdy double-walled aluminum rims, and a superb trail-taming Schwinn suspension fork. 

The 24 speed shifters also ensure fluid gear shifting, which makes for a fun and pleasant riding experience. In addition to that, the mechanical disc brakes lock into place instantly when applied, and this ensures precise and efficient stopping. 

The wheels have all-terrain tires and alloy rims for strength and low weight. Plus, you can easily adjust the height of the saddle using the quick release seat post to get your best fit. 

Related Post: Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike Review

Finally, is Trek 4300 MTB a good buy?

The Trek 4300 mountain bike is a reliable and versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrains and riding styles. 

With its durable aluminum frame, wide range of gears, and powerful brakes, this bike is a great choice for both beginners and experienced riders. 

Trek 4300 offers a solid balance of performance and affordability. And if you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly mountain bike, the Trek 4300 is definitely worth considering.

You likely won’t find a brand-new Trek 4300, but the alternative options we included above are great choices too.

You may also like:

• Best Budget Mountain Bikes Under $400
• Best Budget Mountain Bikes Under $300
• Best Mountain Bikes for $1500 and below

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Just bought a 2011 Trek 4300 Disc

• Add to quote

I'm a newbie/beginner, never mountain bike before and just bought the 4300 D in matte bronze on impulse. I know I should of researched before I bought it. It will be ready tomorrow for pick up. Did I make a mistake? Is this okay for entry level?  

Trek4300D619 said: I'm a newbie/beginner, never mountain bike before and just bought the 4300 D in matte bronze on impulse. I know I should of researched before I bought it. It will be ready tomorrow for pick up. Did I make a mistake? Is this okay for entry level? Click to expand...

The 4300 a good entry level bike. Get out and ride it and you'll be hooked.  

rlb81 said: I started on a 4300. It's a sturdy bike to start on, though there is room for improvement in the components. I think its a decent bike to get you on the trails to see if you like MTB. Click to expand...

Pedro S said: The 4300 a good entry level bike. Get out and ride it and you'll be hooked. Click to expand...

The only mistake is if you don't ride it...that is a great bike to start off on!  

TXTony said: The only mistake is if you don't ride it...that is a great bike to start off on! Click to expand...

Congrats on your new purchase. I hope that you really get out there and ride. It is a great sport to get into, and there is just a wealth of information on this forum.  

My first real bike was a Trek 4300. I gave it hell....and it gave me many years of enjoyment. Very solid beginner bike.  

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Bike summary

Bike components.

Alpha Black Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, formed down tube w/integrated gusset, formed top tube, monostay seatstay, forged dropouts w/rack & fender mounts, replaceable derailleur hanger

Rear Derailleur

Shimano Alivio

Front Derailleur

Shimano Altus

Shift Levers

Shimano Alivio, 8 speed

SRAM PG-820 11-32, 8 speed

Shimano Alivio, 42/32/22

Wellgo alloy platform

Formula alloy DC20 front hub, Shimano alloy M475 rear hub; Bontrager Ranger 32-hole rims

Bontrager XR2, wire bead, 26x2.1"

Promax DSK-907 hydraulic disc brakes

Bontrager SSR, 25.4mm

Bontrager SSR, 25.4mm, 25mm rise

1-1/8" threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings

Bontrager Evoke 1

Bontrager SSR, 31.6mm, 20mm offset

Bike geometry

About this model.

4300 Disc completes the Trek 4300 model. Trek launched 24 bikes of this model so far. Take a sneak peek at all Trek 4300 bikes models from 2011 , by clicking here .

Make sure you wear a helmet on every ride, and that your bike performs well. In short, this means checking the tires, brakes, and chain to make sure everything is in good working order.

Crosscountry bikes average price

According to our calculations, the average cost of a Crosscountry bike that is reliable is 1905 $ . However, paying less money than this amount doesn’t mean that you couldn’t get a great Crosscountry bike. In conclusion, always check bike reviews and their components before making a purchase to make sure you don’t overpay.

Overview of components

When it comes to wheels, the 4300 Disc bike is equipped with the 26″ aluminum model. These wheels give you great handling over your bike. However, you will need increased suspension than in the case of 29″ wheels.

We ride faster and faster, so a good braking system is essential on a bike nowadays. The 4300 Disc comes with Hydraulic Disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are perfect for mountain biking, road cycling, and commuting. To sum up, you can ride your bike with confidence.

Trek 4300 models from 2014

Trek 4300 models from 2013, trek 4300 models from 2012, trek 4300 models from 2011, trek 4300 models from 2010, trek 4300 models from 2009, trek 4300 models from 2008, trek 4300 models from 2007, trek 4300 models from 2006, trek 4300 models from 2005, trek 4300 models from 2004, trek 4300 models from 2003.

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Trek 4300 Disc XC Hardtail

• Frame: Alpha Black Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, formed down tube w/integrated gusset, formed top tube, monostay seatstay, forged dropouts w/rack & fender mounts, replaceable derailleur hanger
• Front Suspension: Spinner 300 w/coil spring, preload, hydraulic lockout, 100mm travel
• Wheels: Formula alloy DC20 front hub, Shimano alloy M475 rear hub; Bontrager Ranger 32-hole rims
• Shifters: Shimano Acera, 8 speed
• USER REVIEWS

This bike is the best hard tail ever! I have put at least 1000 miles... mostly off-road... i have dropped it down a hill... taken it muddling to the point that the tires don’t turn due to the mud clogging them up....gone through 2 feet of water multiple times..... and the first maintenance was done by me 3 years after buying it. Bike still going strong, just replaced tires.... yes there are newer prettier bikes out there but I will live and dye by my old hard tail that I’ve had for over 6 years!!!!! If you know guns... this is the AK47 of hardtail mountain bikes.

The only thing is that a hard tail will rough your bottom up if you haven’t gone on one for a while... but after a few rides your butt gets used to it :)

Frame, frame, frame. The Alpha frame is outstanding. All other components are acceptable considering the price paid.

Saddle, fork, pedals. Saddle is hard as a rock, road it for 4 years and never got any better. Fork is RST 100 and is stiff, lives up to well earned reputation. Pedals just feel flimsy and weak.

purchased new in 2010 to go along with a 1987 Schwinn Road Bike. Ridden as stock for 4 years and although not Caddilac luxury it performed well for the price paid. In my opinion you couldn't get a better new mtb for the money. I have begun replacing worn parts toward the end of 2014 and at the beginning of riding season 2015 I finished (maybe) the job of upgrading. My "new" 2010 Trek 4300 Disc is the following: Ritchey WCS Handlebars, Thomson Elite X4 Stem,Lizard Skins Peaty Custom, Avid BB7 Brakes, Shimano Deore XT 3x9 Shifters, Shimano Deore XT Front Deraileur, Shimano Deore XT Crankset, Shimano Deore XT Shadow Rear Deraileur, Shimano XT 9 Speed Cassette, Shimano 9 Speed Chain, Thomson Masterpiece Seat Post, Selle Italia Max SLR Saddle, Hope QR Seat Clamp, Mavic Crossmax ST 26" Wheelset, Continental Trail King Rear Tire, WTB Weirwolf Front Tire, RockShox Reba 100 Fork, Shimano Saint Pedals, Lizard Skins Large Chainstay, Barfly 3.0 Mount, Garmin Edge 810. Pretty much the only thing that is remaining from original bike is 4300 Frame, Headset, Rear Reflector. The bike is very light now and rides beautifully. Although considering original cost of bike and the cost of all the upgrades, you figure I could have had even a better bike. However, I don't plan on purchasing another bike. I'm happy riding for leisure and exercise and I purchased all the parts at huge discount prices and the Wheelset used but in excellent condition. All in all I'd say I made a good starter MTB better, and for me and what I do it is great. Besides, if I ever do decide to change bike all parts can come off just as easily as they went on. I'm extremely happy with the way it turned out. I would definitely recommend this bike to any MTB beginner or anyone that is looking for a quality MTB but cash constraint.

Similar Products Used:

Excellent value for the price. Very strong design

Stock tires were pretty mild and very soft. Derailleurs could use improvement. Uncomfortable seat but my LBS replaced it cheap. Squeaky brakes at the beginning were annoying but after 100 miles the squeaking stopped.

I purchased this bike in Fall of 2010, my freshman year of college. For the money I do not think that it could have been beat, it was on clearance as the shop was converting to ski season. I have put through quite a bit of abuse and as my first "good" mountain bike I have not been disappointed. I have ridden the bike on several black diamond trails and although I have developed a few issues with the derailleurs I have to attribute them to the various crashes and other mishaps I have had on the trail. After riding mine my father purchased one for himself the following fall. His had the upgraded hydraulic disc breaks that come on the 2011 and up model. I really like them and wish that mine had come with them but he did end up paying more than I did. I just got back from a spring break trip in Moab where I rented a Trek Fuel EX8 and I must say that it blows the the 4300 out of the water however at over 4x the price it should. I will likely hold onto my 4300 even after I upgrade to a full suspension as a decent trail runner if I break anything. I would not hesitate to recommend this bike for a beginner as I don't think you will find a better deal in this price range.

definatley wheels set and bars did it for me, coming from a bmx back round i didnt not expect mountainbiking to be so much fun. being my first bike and riding it like a horse it has proven to handle anything i throw at it e.g downhill,crosscountry, big jumps and a hell lot more. Love this bike

coming with plastic pedals didnt make feel completely confident so i went out n got some alloy peddals that do the job awsomely. nothing really else except small stuff ups by my part, great bike

awsome bike to start on, and has definatley got me stuck on the sport for sure, would recomend this bike for any starter !!!!!!! :)

Frame, geometry, brakes work good (first set of hydros but seem to work well) wheels are solid. tires worked well to start. handles well and also handles decent size drops have done 4ft drops onto grass and 3ft drops on cement and everything held up. bike decends well

rear derailleur could be better for a "mountain bike". only an 8spd. weight but cant expect much lighter at price point

this is for the 2011 model year. first mountain bike to really ride hard. has held up great to everything ive thrown at it and im on my bikes. i come bmx so i can trash a bike quick, but the frame is strong and wheels are solid! promax brakes work well, good modulation. the fork was stiff and rear derailleur kept needing adjustment but have since upgraded. i put about 2000 miles of hard trail riding and racing on it last year not the most comfortable to be on for hours but it isnt a "race" bike but its great to build skills and confidence. the only upgrade i actually needed was a rear rim cause i hit a tree, rear cassette and chain needed replacement after 2600miles, cant complain about that. if your looking to get into mountain biking but dont want to break the bank this is a awesome starter bike to build talent and confidence.

giant boulder se

Strong frame , great hydro Hayes brakes

Derailers, weight

I have a 4300 disc 2012. It was great stock but I ride alot and hard so within 3 weeks I upgraded alot! No you have to understand that 3 weeks is over 350 miles. This is a great bike for the money , I use it 50/50 on off road and for just cruising its fine stock. I ride hard and fast so I'll include the upgrades I've made and am happy with. Xt rear derailer (big improvement!), slx front derailer (huge improvement), richie pro stem , richie carbon riser bar, richie carbon bar ends( all look great and save weight!) I also replaced the pedals they are garbage don't remember name but the upgrade was about 50usd for good platforms. The upgrades made my bike much lighter, smoother and shift better. Good luck you won't be disappointed in this bike even if you leave it stock! PS. Hayes hydro disk brakes are amazing work flawlessly, a bit heavy but not to bad, have a life time warrenty!

Value, great frame, decent starter components

Very poor fork, suntour crankset

I have a 2007 model 4300. For an entry level bike the 4300 is a serious machine. I have put a lot of city and trail miles on this bike and it is still running strong with no issues. I have kept it maintained, lubricated and clean and it has rewarded me with zero issues. That said, this bike is a XC bike. It's not meant for downhill, freeride, trials etc. This bike is meant for single track and moderate trail use. If you recognize this and use it for it's intended use then I think you will be as happy with it as I have been. Most of the components are Shimano Alivio which have been surprisingly resilient. The fork is a RST Gila 80mm - probably the second weakest component on the bike and one that has plenty of bad reviews. I haven't had any issues with it yet but I don't enjoy using it either - I'm basically looking forward to the day it seizes so that I can upgrade. The weakest component on the bike is the Suntour crankset: heavy, clunky and not at all smooth. I have lost two crankbolts and am amazed that the square spline bottom bracket didn't get trashed in the process. I recommend getting some blue locktite and nipping the issue in the bud before any issues arise. I plan to upgrade this to a Shimano SLX crankset soon. One issue I have found is that finding a quality 8 or 9 speed crankset is fairly difficult now that the 10 speeds are out so keep that in mind if you are planning on buying one. My overall impression after 5 years? I still love this bike and I still love riding it. The 4300 is proof that you don't have to spend $2000 on a bike (unless you want to.) This bike is solid and with a few choice upgrades, just as good as a lot of more expensive bikes out there.

Iv'e got the 2012 new spec bike in a nice blue....was initially worried about the suntour forks but they are actually better than the Rock shox xt 30 I had on my old bike...alot has been upgraded from the 2011 version, and so far I have no problems with it.....disk breaks are trustworthy so far down hill, and the frame is quite rigid....iv'e had no problems with any of the shifting components so far.

Seat is uncomfortable and I believe this is a common problem with these spec of Bontrager seats..but this can be changed if it dosen't give. The frame isn't the lightest by any stretch....mines weighing in at about 13.5 kg. The front riding position was too high for me so Iv'e removed spacers and shaved off the steerer tube to fit.The tyres are pretty easy rolling, but not the best for slimy conditions....but most people have different sets for different conditions....so pop my nobby nicks on.

Well iv'e given it a good welly on most type of trails, apart from big drops and it seems to cope well....this bike will be great for intermediate/beginner riders looking to get into the sport and develop fitness and skills before moving on to a high spec bike.....I love mine, and for the money I think it's a guddun once youv'e tweaked it to suit your riding.

Frame- its super sturdy if you treat it right and it has decent geometry, decent crank for an entry level bike. The derailleurs have held up to over 3k miles of trails and streets.

FORK!!!! It's extremely rigid- compression & rebound are too slow for technical trails- pre load adjustments are a joke, HEAVY- feels like I'm pedaling and Abrams up a hill, Derailleur is okay for entry level but has issues under extreme situations, the brakes have great modulation but power is lacking, front derailleur rubs just a bit no matter how much you fiddle with it, those combo brake/shift pods are COMPLETE crap and complicate any future upgrades in that area. Also, in my opinion the stock tires, grips, and saddle just plain blow.

This bike is an outstanding value for the beginner! If you are reading this as a newcomer, and have never done any real mountain biking, get one and ride! I understand the newer models even have hydro brakes, which makes them even better. I doubt many novices will regret buying this bike, it's been a decent all around rig. That being said, don't expect this to be your first and last bike. Those who already have one in this price range or are moderately experienced; I'm sorry, you're gonna need to up you're budget a little. I Upgraded within two years of purchasing this bike, and now have upgraded about 4 times since that. This is a wonderful setup for those who want to get the experience they need, as it is still capable enough to use on technical trails. Albeit not as capable as more expensive bikes, it gets the job done. I've rated this bike in value, and overall, by what else is available in it's category and my overall experience with the bike. Therefore, I think it deserves a solid 4 stars. Not the best, but pretty darn good,

Jamis durango 3, SCOTT Aspect 10, trek cobia 29er, TREK SUPERFLY 100!!!

Frame, geometry

FORK, drivetrain, and seat

This bike feels comfortable and looks good. The big is tough; it's taken a ton of hits. Rims stay true and frame is strong. The fork is garbage. Might as well be riding without one. The drivetrain is lowest grade shimano. I bought the bike before I knew much about MTB; I would NEVER buy the same bike now. Why Trek puts a $20 rear street D on a MTB bike puzzles me. The all-in-one shifter brake assy. is junk. I really like the frame, but it almost doesn't make sense upgrading it. I might start tossing used parts from my other bike on it as I updgrade; we will see. Or just sell it.

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Trek 4300 (SG) review

Trek would probably win every test hands down if options were the main selling points. The 4300 is available in 13, 16, 18, 19.5, 21, 22.5 and 24in frame sizes. There's a £370 disc brake-equipped version too.

Steve Behr ©.

Steve Worland

Look slightly up and down the range and you find an array of other numbered models with remarkably little to set them apart to the untrained eye. So, given that the 4300 looks like a steal for £300, we set out to find its strengths and weaknesses.

The chassis

We really like Trek entry-level frames - a few years ago, frames of this quality would have cost £300 without the rest of the bike. The butted aluminium tubes exhibit the features and fine detail you normally only find at much higher prices. We really like the bi-axially ovalised, hydroformed down tube and curvy wishbone seatstays.

There's also loads of mud room and useful features like rack mounts on the seatstays, two sets of bottle cage bosses and a big stack of stem height adjustment spacers. There are hose guides and brackets for disc brakes if you fancy upgrading, but the £370 disc version would be a better bet if you're that way inclined.

Inevitably at this price, the geometry is dead neutral and casually sporty rather than race influenced. The RST Gila fork provides a plush 80mm (3.1in) of travel, with very effective preload dials on top of the legs - useful if you're heavy, or if lots of your riding is on the road. Like most forks on bikes at this price, rebound damping is almost nonexistent and there's a thunk every time the fork re-extends quickly.

We had a few chain skipping problems with the SR Suntour crankset on the first ride: almost every time a lot of pressure was applied, typically on bumpy climbs, the chain slipped off the middle ring, once resulting in an unwelcome dive over the bar. We come across this occasionally on new bikes and we can't quite work out what causes it.

It seems to be something to do with new chains lifting slightly on new chainring teeth, and it rarely happens beyond the first ride. After this bedding-in period, the drivetrain was fine.

The distinct click shifts of Shimano's eight-speed budget combi shifters make them as beginner-friendly as anything on the market; they performed without fault with the Shimano Alivio gear mechs.

While disc brakes appeal to many riders looking at £300 bikes, we still tend to recommend rim brakes. They're lighter and they make price room for other more important parts upgrades. Also, they perform well enough unless you're regularly riding in very muddy conditions.

Most of the other finishing parts are Bontrager-tagged. The high-rise stem and low-rise 25in Crowbar handlebar work well together, the dual-compound grips are comfortable and the saddle is tough and comfy enough.

A long seatpost allows riders up to just over 6ft to fit the 18in bike. There's a decent set of wheels too: tough Bontrager Camino rims are laced to a Shimano rear hub and a no-name front model. The tyres are Bontrager's fast-rolling but grippy (in all but slippery mud) Connection Trail 2in treads.

We'd been hammering the Marin Northside Trail just before setting off on the 4300, and the Trek, at £200 less, was a bit of a surprise. It feels instantly faster than the Marin - well, it does on the way to the trails.

Its 12.8kg (28.4lb) weight and fast-rolling centre-ridge tyres means that on the road, on steady trails or on climbs, it's the fastest bike in this test. It's only when the going gets rough that it starts to feel a little out of its depth, and even then it's surprisingly good.

As with all £300 bike packages, it's the fork that sets the bike's limitations. Although a suspension fork allows you to hit stuff harder and faster than you would with a rigid fork, it starts to become a bit of a handful over a series of hard-edged bumps. This is because the untamed rebound comes through to the bar, so you need to keep your arms loose to absorb the aftermath of hits rather than the hits themselves. Once you get used to the fork's limitations, you'll learn to love the way the 4300 rides, though.

The handling is just the way it should be - conservatively neutral - and there's tons of ride position adjustment potential - the ideal confidence boost for relative beginners.

The frame would be good enough on a bike at twice the price, and the other low budget parts don't compromise the bike's performance. Steve Worland

Fantastic frame

Trek's size and resulting buying power allows them to build their lower budget bikes with excellent frames. It's unusual to see frames this good on £300 bikes, and it's worth bearing in mind if you see yourself upgrading kit at a later date. As always at this price, a fork with proper rebound damping would be the biggest improvement in performance terms.

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Trek 4300 Mountain Bike Review – Should You Buy It?

On the surface, the Trek 4300 seems like an excellent entry-level mountain bike. Everyone says it’s suitable for leisure or forest trail rides. You can check the article for the breed of best mountain bikes under 300 bucks on Expertbiker . The listed bikes are affordable but they are the top performers. Also you can rebuild your life with Relifesports.com .

From its EVO frame geometry, ISO Speed frameset, and full-floating suspension, Trek has raised the bar for the safety of mountain bikes .

Not to mention, the sheer number of options 4300 is available is astonishing. It comes in 13 inches, 16, 18, 19.5, 21, 22.5, and 25 inch frame sizes. There’s also a $370 disc brake version to appeal to those who prefer disc brakes. 

Considering all this and the unique features that set Trek apart, the 4300 seems like a steal at this price point. But is it really so?

Let’s find out in our in-depth look at its specification, features, ride details, and more below. 

The Key Specifications of Trek 4300

• Colors: Matte Dniester Black/Viper Red, Trek White/Signature Green/Placid Blue
• Frame type: Hardtail
• Frame material: Aluminum Alloy
• Frame Details: Gold Alpha Aluminum with the semi-integrated head tube, formed and butted down tube & Top Tube, race geometry, internal cable routing, rack mounts, forged dropouts,
• Gears: 27 speed
• Chainset type: 44-32-22
• Fork travel: 100 mm
• Wheel size: 26 inches (MTB Wheel sizes explained)
• Chainset: Shimano Acera
• Front derailleur: Shimano Acera
• Rear derailleur: Shimano Acera
• Shifters: Shimano Acera M390, 9 Speed
• Front hub: alloy, formula DC20
• Rear hub:  alloy, formula DC22
• Cassette: Shimano Acera
• Brakeset: Shimano M395 hydraulic disc brakes
• Front fork: Suntour XCM
• Wheels: Formula DC20 alloy front hub; Formula DC22 LW alloy rear hub w/Bontrager AT-650 32-hole double-walled rims

The Key Features of Trek 4300

Below are some exciting features of this mountain bike:

The Trek 4300 has an alpha gold aluminum frame. Aluminum frames are strong yet super lightweight. Moreover, the butted frame exhibits fine details, smooth welding, and sophistication you have come to expect from Trek bikes.

Moreover, the curvy wishbone seat stays, and the hydroformed downtube gives it a sporty geometry. Hence, it makes for a very durable bike. With proper maintenance, it should remain in good shape for a long time. 

There’s also a mudguard, multiple bottle cage bosses, rackmounts, and height adjustment spaces. The basic versions feature brackets and hose guides to upgrade to disc brakes.

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As you expect, the overall geometry feels casually sporty rather than full-on made to race. The RST Gila fork offers 80mm of travel – handy if you are a bit heavy.

However, given the price point, don’t expect rebound damping. You can also hear a slight thunk when the fork re-extends. 

The Trek 4300 has a very decent Bontrager XR2 set of wheels. They are fast-rolling and offer consistent traction in diverse track conditions.

The sturdy Bontrager Camino rims are attached to the Shimano rear hub. While not fully tubeless, they are tubeless-ready to provide some protection against punctures.

Finally, the inner nylon inserts casing provides sufficient sidewall protection making the tires even more durable. 

3. Derailleur Routing

All the cables are – thankfully – routed internally for max protection. Their ports are fixed adjacent to the head tube and seat tube.

This allows you to run the derailleur via its frame, therefore, saving the cable from weather elements and other wear & tear. It also ensures the Trek 4300 runs much smoother, quieter, and clean. 

4. Suspension

This bike has excellent shocks. It absorbs shocks of rough terrain like a pro, making your ride comfortable and avoiding any body aches after a long ride.

With regular maintenance, expect this bike’s suspensions to take a beating for a long while. 

The Trek 4300 has 27-speed gears. Such a wide range of gears provides you with enough versatility to cycle through any track without much effort.

Working in tandem with excellent derailleurs and cranksets, the gears ensure you can ride any obstacle like a pro mountain bike without much effort. 

It features Shimano hydraulic disc brakes that are easy (and efficient) to apply. Unlike mechanical disc brakes, the hydraulic brakes operate much more effortlessly, especially on uphill rides.

They are also more responsive. A little push and the bike come to a grinding halt almost immediately. What’s more, hydraulic brakes require little maintenance as dirt takes more time to accumulate around the pads and brake lines.

However, the maintenance work isn’t easy. You should have at least some knowledge of the closed systems to get the job done efficiently. 

7. Finishing

Sure, it’s not the most good-looking bike out there, but it’s far from an ugly two-wheeler. It has a brown paint job on its entire frame as well as the saddle .

Plus, the white details and decals on the saddle add to the overall aesthetics. 

How’s the ride of Trek 4300?

As the Trek 4300 is very lightweight (at just 12.8 kg), the ride is faster than many comparable bikes like the Marin Northside Trail. In part, that’s because it has fast-rolling center-ridge tires.

It stays steady on uphill rides and rolls smoothly downhill. However, the bike starts feeling out of its depth if the road gets too bumpy. 

As with every other bike at this price point, the primary limitation comes from the fork. Sure, you can hit the road harder with a suspension fork, but when the road gets too bumpy, the untamed rebound makes the ride a little uncomfortable.

You need to keep your arms loose to absorb the shocks. However, once you get used to these limitations, the ride of the Trek 4300 alpha aluminum bike gets smooth. 

Furthermore, the handling is what you expect – conservatively neutral. As there are several options available to adjust the ride’s position, relative beginners will love to experiment a little to find their perfect position. 

Pros: What makes the 4300 mountain bike a good investment? 

• The Trek 4300 is a very affordable mountain bike in this price range. 
• It has mounts for racks, mudguards , and fenders
• Its frame is very lightweight yet solid – with proper care, it will last years of regular use. 
• It has very efficient shocks that absorb most of the bumps without making the ride inconvenient.
• It has huge frame clearance at the rear wheel, so you can upgrade this bike with larger wheels if you want
• Low standover height in comparison with reach
• Its asymmetric rims come with nipple inserts

Cons: What makes the 4300 mountain bike a bad investment? 

• You can hear the clang on the rebound
• The Spinner forks have a rather poor damping
• It has small front chainrings
• It comes with shoddy components. However, the low-quality components make sense when considering their low cost. 

Final Thoughts

To conclude, we can say the Trek 4300 mountain bike is designed to flatter newbies and offer them a stable ride and a reliable base to improve on in the future. In that regard, it does its job pretty damn well.

It’s efficient and affordable as well, thanks to a time-proven design and sensible hardware choices. However, the Trek 4300 is not particularly inspiring, especially on downhill bumpy rides.

Overall, the Trek 4300 alpha aluminum is a competent all-rounder mountain bike that intends to please most riders most of the time. How far it succeeds depends on how far you want to push its hardware.

Trek 4 series comprises several hard-hitters, and 4300 is worthy of a place among them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What type of bike is trek 4300 .

Trek 4300 is a mountain bike that is designed for mountainous tracks. Due to the alpha gold aluminum frame, excellent shocks, and a wide range of gears, Trek 4300 is a good option for bumpy rides and leisure tracks in the park or streets.

Who is it for? 

The Trek 4300 mountain bike is perfect for beginners or recreational riders who want to test their mountain riding skills. However, if you plan on blasting downhill runs, it may not be a good choice. 

Does Trek 4300 have mounts for racks? 

Yes, the Trek Alpha aluminum frame has mounts for racks, and they’re really helpful on long rides. 

What size bike is Trek 4300? 

The Trek 4 series 4300 mountain bike is available in 13, 16, 18, 19.5, 21, 22.5, and 24inches frame sizes.

What year is Trek 4300? 

The first Trek 4300 mountain bike came out in 2000. After that, the manufacturer released several different versions in subsequent years.

The first Trek 4300 mountain bike came in red and gloss red colors. 

What is the Trek 4300 price?

Today, you can get a brand new Trek 4300 mountain bike for around $300. It’s a real bargain considering all the value it packs in the package.

You can also purchase its disc brake version if you want better brakes. However, it is slightly expensive, coming in at $370 approximately. 

How much does a Trek 4300 mountain bike weigh? 

The Trek 4300 mountain bike weighs approximately 12.8 Kg which is 28.4 pounds.

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Trek 4300 Disc

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 13", 16", 18", 19.5", 21", 22.5"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Black Aluminum w/externally relieved head tube, hydroformed bi-axial down tube, monostay seatstays, forged disc ready dropouts
• Wheels Shimano M65 disc hubs; Bontrager Ranger rims w/eyelets
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager Jones ACX, 26x2.1"; 27 tpi
• Crank SR Suntour XCC-T102 42/34/24
• Front Derailleur Shimano C050
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Alivio
• Shifters Shimano EF50, 8 speed
• Brakeset Shimano M415, mechanical disc w/ Shimano EF50 levers
• Handlebar Bontrager SSR, 25mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Race Lux Basic
• Seatpost Bontrager SSR, 20mm offset
• Stem Bontrager SSR, 10 degree
• Headset VP-A76C-TK, 1 1/8" semi-cartridge, sealed

Q: Where to buy a 2009 Trek 4300 Disc?

The 2009 Trek 4300 Disc may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2009 Trek 4300 Disc have?

The 2009 Trek 4300 Disc has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2009 Trek 4300 Disc should I get?

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2011 Trek 4300 Disc

A 26″ aluminum frame crosscountry bike with mid-range components. Compare the full range

For This Bike

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A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Jan 2010 · Dan Joyce

Tiny hardtail has it where it counts

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Last updated 29 June Not listed for 2,473 days

stolen 2011 Trek 4 Series 4300

Stolen 2014-05-14T01:00:00-0500 from San Francisco, CA 94105, US

• Serial: WTU107C080F
• Manufacturer: Trek
• Model: 4 Series 4300
• Primary colors: Yellow or Gold
• Frame size: 21IN

Distinguishing features

Bronze mountain-bike 21 in. w/ hydra. disc brakes

Theft Details

• Location: San Francisco, CA 94105
• Stolen at:  2014-05-14T01:00:00-0500
• Police report #: T14011191
• Department & city: San Francisco

Description of incident

Locked to post Reward: 100

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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What we know about the 4 Idaho college students found dead in an off-campus home

MOSCOW, Idaho — The killings of four University of Idaho students Sunday elicited shock and sadness on campus, in the college city of Moscow, Idaho, and beyond.

The victims were Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen, who became fast friends in the 6th grade; Ethan Chapin, a triplet from Washington state known for his love of sports and his sense of humor; and Xana Kernodle, a marketing major whose family recalled her positive and light-hearted personality. 

The four were found slain at a home off-campus. A suspect has not been arrested. Moscow police said they don't believe there is an ongoing threat, and that “evidence indicates that this was a targeted attack.”

Goncalves, Mogen and Kernodle lived together at the home, according to Ellie McKnight, their neighbor and a friend of Chapin's at the University of Idaho.

Here is what we know about the victims:

Kaylee Goncalves, 21

Kaylee Goncalves, of Rathdrum, a city close to Coeur d’Alene, was “the ultimate go-getter,” her sister, Alivea Goncalves, told NBC’s “TODAY” in an interview.

She was a senior majoring in general studies in the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences, and was in the Alpha Phi sorority, the university has said.

Goncalves and Mogen had been friends since middle school, and members of both families treated them as one of their own. The Goncalves’ took Mogen with them on cruises, and vice versa.

“We’re all sisters — and Kaylee and Maddie were, especially,” Alivea Goncalves said.

“They did everything together,” Alivea Goncalves, said. “They fought like sisters, they loved like sisters, they shared clothes and fought over the clothes they shared like sisters.”

Kaylee Goncalves had recently bought a 2016 Range Rover, she planned a trip to Europe for next year, and planned to move, probably to Texas, also next year, her sister said.

“She had everything going for her, absolutely everything,” her sister said. “She had her job lined up. She had worked really hard for it, she just bought a new car, she had trips planned.”

Madison Mogen, 21

Mogen, of Coeur d’Alene, was a senior majoring in marketing and was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority, the university said.

“I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else to be the main character in all my childhood stories,” Kaylee Goncalves wrote on Instagram in May to wish her Maddie a happy 21st birthday. A slideshow showed them grow up from young girls to the college students they were.

"I love you more than life! My best friend forever and more," Mogen replied, with a heart emoji.

Mogen planned to move to Boise after graduating this spring, family friend Jessie Frost told the Idaho Statesman newspaper .

Mogen also worked with Kernodle at a restaurant, and Mogen helped run the business’ social media pages, the newspaper reported. The restaurant, the Mad Greek, posted on Facebook that the two women "brought so much joy to our restaurant and all of those they encountered."

Ethan Chapin, 20

Chapin was a freshman from Mount Vernon, Washington, a city in Skagit County north of Seattle.

He majored in recreation, sport and tourism management, and was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, according to the University of Idaho.

Chapin had just turned 20, and was a triplet, his parents, Stacy and Jim Chapin, told NBC affiliate KING of Seattle .

“Everything we do, is all of us, together,” Stacy Chapin told the station. “We’re a pretty tight family.”

Chapin and his siblings were athletic, and among the sports he played was club soccer for years, his parents said. He was funny and loved country music, they said. "He literally lit up every room," his mother told KING.

He also was in a relationship with Kernodle, and the two had been dating since the spring, McKnight said.

In an Oct. 29 Instagram post, Kernodle wished Chapin a happy birthday and said life was "so much better with you in it."

Xana Kernodle, 20

Kernodle, of Post Falls, Idaho, was a junior majoring in marketing, and she was also in Pi Beta Phi sorority, the university said.

“I am lucky to have had her as a sister,” her sister, Jazzmin Kernodle, said in a statement.

Jazzmin Kernodle recalled her sister as someone who was so positive and light-hearted she "always lifted up a room." The family is at a loss for words, and are waiting to find out more from the investigation.

“Our hearts go out to Kaylee, Maddie and Ethan and all their families as well. They were all amazing people, and were loved so much,” she said. “My sister was so lucky to have them in her life.”

Tim Stelloh reported from Moscow, and Phil Helsel from Los Angeles.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

Tim Stelloh is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.