The economy sucks, gas is cheap, and it's a new year so it's time to buy new stuff and get rid of the old stuff. Hence, plenty of people are dumping their "so last year" bikes on eBay. Don't neglect ebay!
Last November I hunted around for about 6 weeks before finding an absolutely killer bike for $300 on ebay.
Solid frame, XTR shifters/cassette/derailler, BB7 disc brakes, a nice Marzocchi fork and rear shock, and race face carbon cranks. I passed up plenty of similar or better deals that ended up going for $400-$600, because I am a cheap ass. Also I consider eBay to be kind of a sport
