The reason I ask is my Trek 820 mtb ($300) just broke an axel. Its less than a year old. And I did not abuse it. (I have a thread in "bike mechanics".)

I am wanting a hybrid. There is a shop close by that sells Cannondale, I believe.
So, you all are saying I'm going to have to pay around $450 for a decent bike? I thought $300 was a lot a year ago when I bought this Trek as a step up from the $60 Walmart bikes that used to last me 3-6 months.