Mountain bike suggestions...
 

Hey guys,
Im looking to possibly get a mountain bike to go to and from work. Just mainly looking for a cheaply priced one that is the best bang for the buck. I only work 3 miles from my house so i figure it will be cheaper then driving, and not take too much longer then driving as well. Any suggestions? I was looking at going to target and picking one up, but if you guys have any other suggestions that would be better let me know.
Thanks
Tom

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

If you just want it for riding to work I wouldn't get a mountain bike. I would look at a cross/hybrid bike. They have a frame and riding position like a mountain bike, but bigger wheels with smaller tires like a road bike. They are a good bit faster and easier to ride on pavement.

Whats your budget?

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

Well i would like to get one that i can also ride on a couple local trails with my girl. I have been looking on craigslist and found a pretty nice Mongoose MDX. http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/bik/802578456.html Its only $125. I also found this full suspension bike http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/bik/804079548.html another mongoose Tech 4. Im looking to get one for under $300. I think craigslist will be the best bet.
Have any of you had any expirence with full suspension vs Hard Tail? What are some decent brands? etc.
Thanks

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

That mongoose is a walmart bike. And it has 24" wheels, which means its probably fairly small. IF you are spending under a grand I would stay away from full suspension.

If you want a "real", non department store bike for under $300 your going to have to go used.

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

I agree about getting a hybrid bike. It is a good all around bike for trails (as in compacted class 5 gravel and paved road). Unless you really need a mountain bike for rough terrain, the hybrid would serve you better for commuting.

Go to a real bike shop. Look at what they have and test drive them. Our local bike shops here - Penn Cycle, Erik's Bike shop, and The Route are pretty good places to shop for bikes at decent prices. (giant, trek, specialized, etc.) I was able to get my Trek 7100 for around $200 by trading in my old MTB (a sporting goods store model). And they will also help you fit it to your size.

HTH.

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

since posting this i have actually started looking at either a Trek Bike or a Giant based on one of the mountain biking forums. Something i can upgrade later on.

Re: Mountain bike suggestions...
 

Specialized HRXC. You can get one brand new for under $350.