Buying 1st Mtn. bike

I've been biking 2 yrs. I lucked out on my 1st road bike, Lemmond Big Sky. I'm looking at a used KHS Alite 1000, 2005. The specs on the web were confusing. One said the frame was an alloy. The other said aluminum. What is 7001 aluminum. What does that number stand for? What is double butted?
Do I need disc brakes? I live in the mountains near Reno. I will have some climbs. I was told a hard tail would be best. Do I need to spend more than $400? I don't plan on getting too crazy. The KHS used bike retails for 599.00 for an unused 2005. This girl is asking $350. That seems high for used, but its my size which is pretty small. Its a 13". Any advice?

I believe no bike purchase should be rushed. Depends of course on the riding you plan on doing with the bike. Many mountain bikes are aluminum - not a bad material for a full suspension or even a hard tail as the shocks take out alot of the hits to the frame. I would do an internet search on the types of frame materials.

As to disc brakes... if you do some pretty agressive riding than in the future you might consider disc brakes but the wheels on the bike must be disc ready. If no that also means new wheels. If you are small and light weight, Vbrakes should do you just fine.

13" frame is very small. I'm 5'8" and ride a 17" frame so keep that in perspective. A MTB frame is generally smaller than a road frame.

Anyway would help if you let us know how you plan to use the bike (hard packed fireroads vs. rocky, gnarly singletrack etc). Do you know the components the bike has? Can the frame be upgraded with better components if you decide you like to ride MTB?

Thanks, I'm 5'3". I tried a 13" at REI and was told that was my size. When I stand over it I can lift it about 2" before my crotch hits the bar. My inseam is 31"

I will be riding on trials that have unavoidable rocks, and there will be long climbs. I live in the mountains. I do not plan on taking any big risk. If I hurt my hands I can't work.

I need a website for beginners looking to buy. There's so much "stuff" to consider.

Thanks for your help.

Actually this question has come up here alot - do a search.

Also check out mountainbikereview.com, bikeforums.net (MTB thread).

A friend of mine today told me about a book called "Blink" most decisions should be impulsive. If it seems right for you, go for it.

Thanks again. I recommend the book, "Blink." I put its advice to use for dating. Now I haven't been on a date in months.