Looking at getting a mountain bike sometime. Trying to decide what would fit my needs most. This bike may be used in the city, though I do have my road bikes for that. I will be finding some trails and trying to hit them. I don't want to go very slow, so speed and control should be pretty high up on the priorities list.
I think maybe a hardtail would be best?
I also need to know what to look for and what to avoid, other than the common bicycle stuff.
Also, sizing. I am a 29" inseam, 5'6", so it may be hard to find a fit. What size would be good? Around 18"?
And, what brands should I avoid? I have been trying to avoid Magna, Mongoose, and other store brands.
Here are some bikes I have found on the local CL that I think would be good buys:
http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/bik/2933697407.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/bik/2907197148.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/2933764010.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/2903079424.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/2928098678.html
The last two - I am thinking - may be the best bets. But, again, I am coming here for your guys' opinions and help.
These specific listings may not be what I can get (as they may be gone by the time I am ready), so they should only serve as examples (so don't look at the price).
Don't want to spend more than $100. Hoping to find something much lower though.
Thanks all!