sfinks98

im 18 and planning to go to college next year so i figure its about time i started riding a bike. ive used my dad's bike a few times but im always worried about wrecking it so im planning to get my own. the problem is i dont know anything about bikes. Im thinking i want a mountain bike and i want it to be light and cost around 500 dollars. anyone know of a good bikes that fits these requirements?

Little Darwin

Some food for thought.

Unless you plan on riding trails, a mountain bike may not be your best bet.

Do you plan to ride mostly on the road, off road or a combo?

My primary ride is considered a comfort bike (Giant Sedona DX) and would fit your budget, it is betwen a mountain bike and a street bike. However, if off road riding will be minimal and/or rail trails, I would actually suggest Giant's Cypress line to get the 700c wheels.

Each manufacturer has their own similar lines of bikes.

If you will always be on the road, but don't want drop bars, then a hybrid would be in order. Narrower tires, but flat bars...

sfinks98

thanks for the suggestions. i guess a combo would be a better option. i just dont feel that comfortable on those skinny street tires.

Nicodemus

You can get good, comfortable street tires without having to put up with the 23mm racer tires. A range of types from 25-32mm will do you just fine.

If your dad has a bike, does he ride it regularly? i.e. is his bike just a toy for him, or does he actually ride? Maybe he can give you some pointers as well.

You are probably best with a hybrid, though I hate to use the term as it's so vague. Narrow down what you think will be best for you with a few visits to bike shops, see what's available in your price range. Then you can narrow it down.

atomship47

will you be using this bike for commuting on campus?

Adagio Corse

Go with bikes that can handle 700x32 or 700x35 sized tires for stability and comfort. Anything smaller than 30 width is still too skinny, based on what you are saying. Lots of great commuter bikes from Specialized, Trek, Schwinn and Bianchi to choose from.

M_S

The Kona Dew line is also a good bet. You can definitely do trails with them, but they are great city bikes as well. I beleive the basic model Dew is right in your price range.

v1k1ng1001

find somebody to build you one of these hip vintage road bikes

the chix will dig u

Pompiere

I just returned from a college visit with my daughter last weekend. I would definately NOT want to take a new bike there. All the bikes are stored outside in racks, many had missing parts. I did see one girl carrying her bike upstairs to her room, but that was the exception. If you are taking the bike just for getting around campus, you may be better off finding an older bike at a yard sale this summer. A lot of people pay good money for nice bikes and then store them away for years before finally unloading them for a few dollars. Usually, all they need is some lubrication and replacing the dry rotted tires.

bfuser2834719874

never again in ur life