Mountain Biking - want to get a MB

looking for advice on a new bike, I just started riding last fall with a Raleigh Hybrid
from my LBS, I really like it, but I would like to take to some trials at my local park,
No big hills, mostly flat, gravel, loose dirt, roots, etc I can't afford much over $500
I like the idea of 29's , Just want the most bang for my Bucks, Disc brakes maybe??
I am not a Everyday rider, Weekend casual thanks for any info

David

...and here I thought this was going to be about a medical degree.

...... but I would like to take to some trials at my local park,
.....

are you going to ride trails, or trials? big difference.

assuming you want to ride trails....if you are happy with the raleigh, they make a great mountain bike for about $500. Look at the Raleigh Talus.

Go to as many LBS that you can and try as many bikes in your price range that you can. Buy the one that you like the best. $500 is a limited budget, but do-able.

$500 is a really limited budget...

I would not choose disc brakes at that price point, I would go with v-brakes and change pads to someting from kool-stop. Trek, Specialized, Jamis, should all have a bike in that range, but its going to be low end. Used might be an option if it was used lightly and not abused. Around here you can get a LOT more of a bike for $500 if you search craigslist... just check frame over REALLY well for cracks if its aluminum.

Felt makes two entry-level trims of their "Niner" 29" hardtail MTB which are like $599-699. My father in law has one of them and it's a decent bike for the money.

My brother in law spent even less and rides a Motobecane from BD.


But that's all I've got. Generally, it's quite true that $500 is an impossible budget for a new MTB.

Craigslist is usually a good choice in that price range. You might also check to see if there is a local mountain bike club. Mountain Bikers have a couple spares around. $500. can loosen their grip on a beloved old bike. Plus they might be able to help with skills and other trails to ride.

Redline Monocog 29'er. MSRP of $550, singlespeed so it's simple and low maintenance, rigid fork but with the bigger 29" tires who needs suspension. Buy one you won't regret it!