Mountain Biking - Semi-cheap bike?

Hello, people. I'm from CA and just got into biking. I was lucky enough to snare a practically unused 2000 Giant Iguana SE for $300. My father's looking for a mountain bike himself so we can go riding together, mostly on paved roads or light trails. Any suggestions?

He's short, around 5' 6", and weighs about 145 lbs. He says he doesn't have a "set" price range, but I'm pretty sure he's looking at around anything up to $300-$500. I'm thinking a low-end hardtail would be good for him. He's a light weekend rider and probably won't get out much, but I think a hardcore bike would be good because when he's not using his bike I could "borrow" it, if you know what I mean (I'm 5' 8", 118 lbs.). If you guys know a really good mountain bike (any kind) for the money around $800, I'll take it and give him the Iguana (heh heh).

And, er, do you think I could thrash the Iguana on rough trails, or do I need to upgrade components/get a better bike? I don't know much about bikes yet, but I'm getting a lot more free time and am planning to do some heavier riding.

Thanks a lot, guys.

That was a good deal for $300.00 and I don't think you need to upgrade anything straight out of the chute. Wait until parts wear out or break and then upgrade.

There are a lot of good bike in the $300-500 range and really good NEW bikes up to $800. You're just going to have to shop around!

L8R

KHS makes some good moderate priced bikes.

Tell him to get a Specialized Hardrock.

Its what im getting

its like $300 with RST Cappa TLs( the bootless ones),a really strong frame,double wall rims,and like 2.3 tires.

Trust me. Its a good,cheap bike that withstands stuff.

Originally posted by ljbike
KHS makes some good moderate priced bikes.



KHS Rigid One.

go kona!!! kona nunu or cindercone...

Another Giant?

I would suggest maybe a ralleigh m60 or m50 for the price i say they are unbeatalbe. I really dont think i would push a hard rock on someone i have one and i swear the bike is like a bad case of herpes. I have already replaced a free hub ,front and rear derailleurs, and handlebars. I do ride hard and a lot but that is a lot of things to replace on a year old bike. But back to the topic if you are only looking at riding paved roads / light trails i wouldnt think twice about buying a low end 200 dollar bike.

I just bought a Gary Fisher Tassajara for 555.00. Very nice bike. I really like the Genesis Geometry of it. Look into the Gary Fisher's,

A specialized hardrock would be perfect for your price range. I have one and its the best bike you will ever ride.

While your looking around, check Ibex -
Ibexbikes.com
I've been riding the Ignition 2 for 3 months and its sweet for $500. They make hardtails, full suspension, road bikes, whatever.