Originally Posted by Pamestique

Mountain bikes, ie bikes intended for trail use with suspension, should only be used on trail. They really aren't suited for street use.

I am a firm believer there is no one bike that does everything. Really assess what type of riding you plan to do. If just starting out I assume it will mostly be road, paved trail etc. Get a road or cyclecross bike, without suspension. For your price point, suspension will be bad and prong to failure. Look for a good hardy material, such as steel or aluminum, the best components possible for your price point and consider spending some money getting wheels relaced to support your weight. If you do get a mountain bike, switch out the knobbies to road slicks (25 - 28 width) unless of course, you actually plan to do dirt trails only.

I think if you step away from purchasing a mountain bike, you will have alot better options in that price point...