I have an OLD Novara mountain bike (it's about 11 years old) and it's still going. It's definitely sturdy. Of course, the newer bikes are going to have much better brakes, shifters, drivetrains, etc. The biggest problem with my bike, besides bottom of the barrel components for this day and age, and heavy weight, is fit. REI did not do a professional fitting for me. We've done everything possible to adjust the bike to fit me, but it's just not going to happen - the frame itself is too big. So, more important than anything, is to have your boyfriend get a professional fitting so he can make sure he buys the right bike!

I believe the first two weeks of May REI is running a special for 20% off any one full-price item (for members). So, you may want to take advantage of that!

Good luck!