Originally Posted by wrk101

$300 should buy you something middle of the product line, in ready to ride condition. Spend some time getting educated on what separates a basic bike from a good one.

In any financial transaction, the person with the most knowledge WINS. Be that person.

Get knowledgable, get lucky, or more likely, get taken.


Also spend some time determining the best size for you. Its all out there on the web.

Final advice, on a budget, older rigid frame MTBs make great college bikes and commuters too. They are near indestructible, are available at low prices, use standardized parts, etc. Save your college money for beer or other entertainment.