Originally Posted by scarecrow

A good hardtail with good wheels is a starting point. I'm partial to steel frames because aluminum frames feel too dead. A good bike that cost $1000-1500 years ago can be had for under $500. Have someone look it over, like a bike mechanic, and make sure the frame isn't cracked and such. If you don't crack a smile every time you ride it, it's not the right bike for you. A good time to shop is in the spring when people are shopping for upgrades and want to dump what they have to buy the latest ride.