I actually have spds on my road bike...I know, to most roadies that's an abomination, but when it came to saving money on my new bike, I figured the pedals were the place. So, if I did try clipless on a mountain bike, I could just swtich them out with the platforms.

But my new problem is trying to convince my friend who's bike I borrowed to go ride again. This is why I'm thinking of buying my own, just a used mtb, probably off craigs list or something. But I don't want to spend a lot, I'm hoping to get a decent bike for a beginner for under $300...is that even possible?