I'm relatively new to MTB. I bought an REI Co-op DRT 1.1 hardtail about 2 years ago. It's decent but I ride with guys who have full-suspension Santa Cruz or Cannondale bikes and they can manage to get up more tricky terrain. I find myself walking my bike more than I'd like.
I've seen some 6 or 7 year old seemingly better bikes on FB marketplace for $600-800 like a Ghost Kato FS 7
Is that decent upgrade from a hardtail while on a budget? What's the best options for upgrades under $1000?
It's mostly rocky hilly terrain and some gravel narrow tracks in central Texas.
Suspension is gonna be helpful for downhill. Your hardtail should be lighter, should be helpful for climbing. Try scooting your seat forward as much as you can. You said you are relatively new to mtb. Keep at it. Youโll get there! ๐๐
I made some minor adjustments to my seat position and height and I could tell a difference today. I think I need to just beef up them quads.