Help me choose a bike, please...
 

My old bike was stolen last fall and i'm thinking now might be the time to look into a new purchase before the spring rush.

Although I ride almost everyday I'm really a newbie when it comes to bikes. I need some advice as I really have no idea where to start. A little about me:

-I do alot of urban type riding say to and from work, errands and so on however there are alot of trails to ride within and not far outside from city limits here in Portland Maine.

-I'm 5'9 175lbs

-I'm looking to spend somewhere in the neighborhood of 400-500 bucks?

I'd love a few suggestions that i could follow up on at the local shops. Thanks.

Sounds like a good entry level hardtail will fit your needs just fine.Specialized,Giant,Trek,Kona and Haro will have a lot to offer in this price range but don't limit you search to just these brands. What brands do the local shops offer? That would help with suggestions as well.

There are alot of shops here in portland, I'd be able to find all of the brand you've mentioned above (except for maybe kona) and more...

You might want to go out to some shops and ride some bikes. The one that feels best to you is really gonna be you best bet.

It's a little over your budget ($600) but I got a Woodstock 505 and really like it (www.woodstockbikes.com). What I like is the components you get are a lot better than what you find on other bikes in a similar price range. The only thing you might not like for in town riding is the clipless pedals. It's an all around great bike though and very capable on the trails.

Yes, I guess i am just looking for some suggestions/thoughts on brands and models around my budget to get me started...