Mountain bike suggestions...

[tpunx99GSX]

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

[9guy9]

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?

[tpunx99GSX]

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

[9guy9]

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.

[white_4gGT]

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.

Originally Posted by tpunx99GSX

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

[tpunx99GSX]

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.

[Kracka]

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