Mountain Biking - Newbie Bike buying info needed!

Hello all, as part of my exercise program, I thought it would be fun to actually get a mountain bike/or hybrid instead of always riding the bikes at the gym. I'm looking for a good bike in the $700-$1000 range. One of the local shops near my campus sells specialized, giant and trek. I really like the specialized bikes (they had a large selection of specialized) I'm looking for info on a good bike to get me started. It will be mainly for use riding to class, and probably some off road activity. Thanks in advance for any info.

that is plenty of money to spend on a first bike.
all those brands are fine and as you ride more and more
you will know what you want to upgrade down the road.
allthough with that much cash you will get a very nice bike.

the most important thing is MAKE SURE THE BIKE FITS.
if the bike is too big or too small you won't ride it as much
and it will be a waste of money.

good luck, and let us know what you end up with

Thanks for the tip. I definitely want something comfortable for me as I am 6 ft 2 in and have a good bit of muscle on me, I'm no little guy, so I need a bike that can take my abuse :D I was on Specialized website today and saw a new 2003 model that I'm thinking about, it's the Expedition SE http://www.specialized.com/SBCBkModel.jsp?san=03ExpeditionSE&bl=comfort

Also, I like the 2002 Rockhopper http://www.specialized.com/SBCBkModel.jsp?san=02RockhopperA1CompFSRxc&bl=mountain

I've still got 2 weeks before I make my decision. I'm waiting until the 2003 models come in my LBS.

The Expedition is more of a comfort bike, good for just cruisin back and forth to class, but not the best choice for off road. If off road is only a dirt road or a smooth path, then it's o.k. If you're wanting to do some serious off road riding, go with a traditional mt bike. With your budget, I'd stick with a front suspension and have fun!

L8R

Yeah, I'm starting to lean more towards the traditional mountain bike. I know how much I loved to ride when I was younger, and I also just love physical activity of all kinds. So I think once I start riding I'm going to love it and want to take it out in BFE :)

As stated before, I would say get a mtb. Get one that fits with front susspension. In the price range you are looking at you can get a good bike.
One thing you might want to check into is bike theft on your campus. Some of the worst areas for bike theft are colleges, especialy if you have any night classes. I do not know what school you attend nor the location so you might not have any problem. Out here in CA it is real bad. Even with good, strong locks the bikes get taken.
Slainte :beer: