I started mtb with hubby a few years ago and am starting back again after a year of mostly running last year. I have a Jamis Durango that cost just about $500 and it is a pretty good starting out bike for the $. We're in PA so it's lots of roots and rocks and I think my Jamis does pretty well with all that. Hubby is trying to upgrade me but I'm sticking tight so far, lol! He's got a niner and just bought a stumpjumper so he's got higher-end stuff than me but I don't mind. I hope that helped!