First of all hello! I live in Asheville North Carolina, and I am going to move soon. I used to go mountain biking alot with a buddy of mine, and really enjoyed it, he let me use a "Specialized" model had had, and said it was about $500 but he always overexaggerates, so I was thinking it was around $300. I enjoyed using this bike and it seemed very nice. I have had many friends have many bikes as well, My buddy had a "Haro" Mountain Bike and said he paid like $500 with it, and it seemed like a great bike. My girlfriend wants to go mountain biking alot too, and has alot of interest in it, and I was thinking I would buy us both bikes, her birthday is coming up in march, so I'd like to surprise her. I personally want a road bike to commute from work, plus it can get me in great shape! But I'd rather have the mountain bike because I can just use that for work, as well as spend time with her. Can someone help me on making a decision!
Can someone just give me some information as well on what to spot, how to spot nice bicycles, and what all we would need, like camelpacks, Helmets(OFC!!! ), and other assorted things. I am going to visit a bicycle shop right near me to get some information but I'd rather come here cause everyone seems to actually know what they talk about! (on a bike forum! I know ironic right? )
I am looking to maybe spend like 500-600 for both of us to get some nice bikes, if possible! But any info is appreciated! I joined this forum to hopefully get some help so thank you much!

-b