Mountain Biking - New to BikeForums and would like some advice

I have an old Univega that I beat on pretty hard when I was younger and now that I have kids (one old enough to ride and twins to go in a trailer) I need a new bike. I would like to get another HT MTB but kind of looking at a Comfort bike. I dont have much to choose from in my area (especially in the $ range I am looking for, $200-$300) but I have a Dick's Sporting Goods right by my house. I have been looking at the Diamonback bikes and they dont seem to be that bad. Inparticular I am looking at the Outlook, Wildwood, or Sorento, leaning towards the Sorento. I dont see much in this forum about Diamondbacks but would like to hear some YEA's or NAY's.

I will be using it mostly on paved roads pulling a trailer, some well packed trails and a little off road, muddy trails.

What do you guys think, can you help me out???

Sorento should do just fine

If you just want a bike to ride around town, go for the comfort bike. If you really think you might want to do trails, look at mountain bikes, at least a hard tail. Butit sounds like to be you need something like a Surly.

There is no one bike that does everything. I have a whole garage full. I have 3 mountain bikes, a cross, a commuter and 3 road bikes. They all do a different job.

In the price range, you choices are limited. Components etc are about the same. JUst find one that fits you. Even inexpensive bikes need to fit properly.

just don't stand up

Sorento should do just fine

I have actually ridden my wife's Sorrento on the trails pretty hard on occasion. I can't seem to destroy it...and that's saying something!!:thumb:

Now THAT's a wreckermendation!

just don't stand up

:popcorn