Originally Posted by Sir-Loin

After an injury in the Army and 36 months, I am ashamed to say I am 100 pounds bigger than I was just a few years ago. I am however, commited to getting my body back to a healthy, respectable form and need some help from the Clydes and co.
I am 5'8" and 295, 5 years ago I was a solid 200lbs and a cardio machine....
I have a budget of very little. I can, in theory, afford about $450 but this is taking alot of creative book keeping. I found a 2000 17"Hardrock(bought new in 2005) for $150.00 in great shape. It is a chromoly and has no front suspension. All stock, hardly ridden. Some q's:

1. Is this a good price?
2. Is the frame worth upgrading later?
3. Would I be better buying a base model Hardrock from the LBS?

I am around Fairbanks, Alaska so a used MTB is slim to none, they seem to sell really fast. Any suggestions?
Thanks, James