Newbie
 

OK, after months of driving by, I finally stopped at the LBS. I looked around and testdrove an entry level specialized. It felt pretty cool. It's $500, which I don't mind spening, but I just want to hear from someone who knows more about bikes than I (other than the salesman). BTW- I went to another bike shop and all they carried was specialized, too. Any comments? I am a beginner (making the step up from my k mart bike). I am looking for a mountain bike but nothing fancy (yet).

Specialized is good stuff, but I'm not a mountain biker so I'm not much help. Anyone that can help is going to want to know what kind of riding you plan to do, and what model bike you were looking at. I ride a Specialized base model Allez, and I've been very happy with it over something like 2600 miles so far.

Specialized makes a really good stable of bikes. When I was in the market for a sub $600.00 mountain bike I had my heart set on a Specialized Stump Jumper. Though I got a Giant Rainier instead, the deal was too darned good to pass on. I have no regrets, but in the future, if I ever purchase another ATB it'll probably be a Specialized.
What model did you "testdrive"? I find it interesting that you said "drive" instead of "ride"... anyhow. Let us know what you'll be using the bike for and what model you were looking at, this will aid in those here giving you more sound advice.

There are lots of great companies out there. I used to sell specialized and they've always put out a quality product at $500.

I would try to get into a Rockhopper and stay away from the Hardrocks if you're looking to ride off road. The geometry on the rockhoppers is more more responsive (i.e. fun) and will serve you better on the trail. The spec is also nicer.

The Hardrocks are designed to be more upright which is more comfortable for just riding around town. Unfortunately this tends to make them piggish on the trails.

The rockhopper disc is a great entry level moutain bike! I've seen the '07 at around $600. You could probably pick up an '06 in your price range.

A rockhopper will be light years ahead of your Kmart bike!!!