I have a nice digital that was in the $600 range problem is its to nice to feel comfortable taking on bike trips for fear of it being broke or stolen. My wife bought me a cheap vivatar at walmart for $50 bucks. I couldn't be more pleased it actually seems to take better pictures than my exspensive cam and the best part is I actually take it and use it since I am not worried about it. I think the biggest thing on a cheaper cam is the abiltiy to use a memory card with it.

MBD

I just got a olympus stylus 410. it has a great built in lense cover thats also the on switch and its one of the few "weather proof" digitals out there right now. I do a lot of hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, and other outdoor stuff so i wanted something durable and as close to water proof as possible. its also very small. I like it so far.