Mountain Biking - New to MTB

hello all im new to the sport, after riding bmx for several years i have finally decided to turn my 20" in for a bigger toy, i live in south eastern idaho, and will be riding alot of trails and offbeaten paths, im not sure on what bike to get although im looking heavily upon the rockhopper comp hardtail, well i suppose what im wondering is this a decent bike to start with, im probably going to want to take a few moderate hits with it as well, my price range is in 500-700 ballpark....

also what would everyone suggest as far as riding shoes?


any feedback is greatly appreciated...

I would look at the specialized p-series. Fit very close to a bmx but with big wheels. Strong to take the hits. This of course assumes you will come out riding more aggressive than the average rider. You might also want to look at Kona Stuff/roast.

If you are looking for something more comfortable or more upright (for trails) take a look at the kona hoss as well. Beefy strong like the stuff/roast but a little taller for trails but still small enough for the fun stuff.

i believe i am going to purchase the 2004 Hardrock Pro (disc)

any comments good or bad on this bike would be greatly appreciated...

also is it able to be downhill/freeride modified?

the hard rock is a very strong bike. One of the guys i ride with has a base model hardrock. The thing is a blast to ride, and its a dang strong bike. You can dirt jump doubles with no problem, basically just a big bmx with a front shock.
as far as pedals, dude i have found that platforms are my favorite, but to each his own. I think I'm going to buy some powergrips...

i wouldnt really say that the Hardrock and P. Series are just big BMX's...their still good for other stuff too...yeah....

As far as the 2k4 rockhopper comp goes i think the components are very solid all around (LX/Deore) the V brakes will probably serve you fine and if at some point you decide to go up you can switch to avid mechanical discs or something like that. Oh yea, and the bike is sexy black and thats all that matters ~

i wouldnt really say that the Hardrock and P. Series are just big BMX's...their still good for other stuff too...yeah....

Ride a bmx...then ride the p series...it feels identical but for adults. You can use it for other things but it really is just a big bmx.