TREK. Trek is a great maker of mountain bikes. I actually have one. I payed about 250 I think and it was really worth it. I have the 3700. I have been really rough on it, like jumps, crashes, wheelies and endos, and it hasn’t broken yet. I’ve had it for about 2 and a half years now. I’ve also done 2 triathlons with it and it did pretty well against the racing bikes. It has a nice gear ratio and nice shocks and nice brakes. It has a really smooth ride and is pretty light. Its also been really easy to maintain. All I have to do is oil the chain and every 8 or 9 months take it in to my bike shop and get it tuned(I got mine at eddies and they give free tune ups if you buy your bike there) If your willing to go a little over your price I would, its really worth it.

I hope your not planning on actually using it in the mountains. You get what you pay for, and if your only going to spend that much, you’re not going to get much. I got a very good starter bike for $500.00. I have abused it quite a bit, but I know it won’t last forever, and I will have to upgrade.

Trek is always good, look into them and see if you can find something in your price range.

Go to a specialty bike store in your area…. they usually have a good used selection. And those folks don’t work off of commission (at least, not in my area) so will help you freely without ripping you off.

costco

proly at walmart or try like a flee market or ebay or even yard sales

get a Huffy or a Schwin