Lots to like for casual biker. Biggest downside is the dated 3x8 drive train. 1X is the way to go these days.
I have a sister version of this bike. It’s definitely a solid bike for those getting into mountain biking.
Yes, 1x is what’s in these days, but as it is, a 3x8 will cover more range. 555% range versus even the SRAM Eagle 1x12, which covers 500%.
After one knows their riding style, the compromises of going 1x will be more valid. FWIW, the chainrings on this crankset are standard 104/64, so a 1x conversion is easily doable should one choose to.
I’ll leave it to Calvin and Truman to elaborate about 1x drivetrains:
(FWIW, I am in the process of changing over one of my bikes from a 3x8 to a 1x11. I need my climbing gears, so a 32 oval up front and 11-46 in the back. I’ll find out in spring if spending that $300 $120 was worth it or not.)