Originally Posted by BadBreaks
Hi,
Is a circa $500 bike from a reputable manufacturer an ok buy? I already bought a road bike this years and dont want to spend a fortune.
Yes. Do a serach for the "around $500 bike thread" - loads of good bikes in there.
Originally Posted by BadBreaks
What sort of pedals to MTB cyclists use? like on an everyday bike or clipless like on a road biek ro what?
Depends on your style - as a virtual begineer I'd recomend some platform pedals, just so you can get a foot down quickly if you need too.
Originally Posted by BadBreaks
Is a regular cycling helmet ok, at least for a start? And do people usually wear other protection? We will be riding in forests.
It'll be fine. I perfer to where knee pads as well, but my knees are in bad shape.