newer than newbie question

[IntenseRide]

So I can start looking :P any recommendations for a good solid entry level mtn bike probably in the $5-700 range (I will not be jumping off any "cliffs" with it)

"Take a look at this Bicycling’s 2006 Best Mountain Bike Under $1000: the Dakar XC"

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/...s/dakarxc.html

Jamis bikes really have a great component set for the price, and this one is a full suspension. It lists at $865, so you should be able to get it on sale at a bike shop in your price range. Also their hardtails are in your price range. Check out Gary Fischer and Trek bikes too. If you go to mtbr.com you can get ratings on all these bikes from people who ride them (which to me is the real deal). I still can't believe full suspensions have come down that much.

Good luck on this!

[LiquidFeet]

Eclectic, I started riding last year at age 56. I bought a cheap used Diamondback hardtail with throw-away suspension on the front, and cheap parts elsewhere too I suspect. I've ridden the thing everywhere, from neighborhood roads to (finally able to do them) twistyturny rockyrooty technical singletracks in my local woods. That suspension has done just fine as I clang over rocks and roots and 12-18" drops off whatever. It would have never stood up to a real jump, but I'm not doing those anyway.
The reason I know it's a throw-away suspension is that I've ruined it, and it can't be unscrewed and worked on inside. It just needs to be replaced. I am still riding it, but am on the lookout for a good bike now that I know what I want.

I am so glad I bought this beginner bike last year. It served me well as I graduated from roads to more interesting stuff. I would not have been able to wisely choose a bike that cost real money way back because I didn't know what kind of a rider I was going to become. Now I know. One day I'm going to be doing some serious downhill vertical. It's fun!

So my suggestion to you is it's OK to get a cheap-o used mountain bike with front suspension, and ride it into the ground. Then buy something more tailored to your growning skills.

[fatbottomedgurl]

Is that "growing" or 'groaning"?

[labgirl]

If the Schwinn doesn't have any front suspension and you get your teeth chattered out of your mouth, you might not get the enjoyment out of mountain biking that other's see. I've been there and thought people are nuts! Even something so simple as front shocks made a world of difference