Mountain Biking - Need Advice: Giant DS2 ; 2000

I had my nice raleigh m50 stolen and havent ridden in about year. It is very depressing, to have a bike stolen as I am sure most of you have experienced. I am dying to start riding again, I ride purely for recreational purposes. 90% of my riding will be on makeshift trails. I ride aggresively but not dangerously.

I have the opportunity to purchase a "Giant Warp DS2" 2000 edition.
http://www.giant-bicycle.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.000.asp?year=2000&model=10307

I have done some research on this bike and it seems that most people complain about its fork. The bike is Medium 18'5" I am 5'9" so this should be the right size for me. The current owner is asking $300 for it, what do you think of this price and what do you think of this bike? Do you have any other suggestions in this price range?

Anyone selling a bike? :) eh..

I am also looking for a nice starter roadbike.

Thanks for your insight,
Lecram

those bikes were... poor to begin with, 5 years later, its even worse. get a decent used hardtail, for 300 bucks you wont get a good full suspension bike (unless you get a killer deal on something).

Thanks for your insight, I will take your advice and pass on this deal. Hopefull I will find a good deal soon. Is there any particular model I should keep my eyes open for that are known to be a good buy in my price range? You know like some extremely over enginered product at a low price?

Thanks

300$...no chance. Sorry that deal isn't one. They were very fragile bikes and did not hold up well to trails.

Thanks for your insight, I will take your advice and pass on this deal. Hopefull I will find a good deal soon. Is there any particular model I should keep my eyes open for that are known to be a good buy in my price range? You know like some extremely over enginered product at a low price?

Thanks

Specialized Hardrock my good man! Or the Trek 4300, 3700, or 4500 if you can wangle it.

Also take a look at the Kona Hahanna or Lana'i. All of these bikes will be lighter, faster and stronger than that DS2.

Good luck!

I have done some research on the hardrock. It seems like a pretty good bike to go after. Which year and model version would you say is the best price to quality? I have never purchased a bike online, are there any retailers that stand out form the rest?

Thanks for your insight everyone!

What do you guys think about, buying a frame and building your own bike? Does this prove to be more cost efficient?

What do you guys think about, buying a frame and building your own bike? Does this prove to be more cost efficient?
Not unless you want a high end bike.