[QUOTE=Flic]
PLEASE HELP ME! The guys in the bike shops don't seem to take me seriously at all, maybe you won't either given I'm suggesting cycling for 8 months on a $80 bike.
QUOTE]
No wonder, they thingk you are time-wating Troll.
In the rare event that you really are an Trans-African explorer rather than a Troll, I would suggest a simple, old-fashioned non-suspension steel MTB. A used 1990s style mid-range model from a major brand (Spcialized, Trek) will do the job.
You will need to spend some money to renew worn components and start with the best tyres you can find.
If you know nothing about bike touring could I suggest a starter tour to learn how its done.
The other alternative is to use a local style of bike, the single speed 28" wheel roadster that is used throughout Africa and Asia.
The bike not to use is a cheap, nasty horrible discount store MTB. It will break and leave you stranded, providing a source of amusement and scap metal for passing cyclists on their Chinese-made roadsters.