I want to start mountain biking, now gotta buy a bike...
 

I went with a friend to go bike riding at our local park, Oleta park, and got my first taste of mountain biking. After going through the beginners, and a little of the intermediate course, I really want to get into it! I was especially amazed at not only the community, but how people easily rode over tree roots and sharp turns in the woods like nothing! I was stuck to the side, getting out of the way of the more experienced riders, breaking and afraid I was going to fall, and these people were riding right over it on the trails! So I went to 2 bike shops in my area and feel pretty good about getting a rockhopper. Theirs cost $587, but after doing more research online not sure about all the details but online it seems like they start around $500. Should I get one of those as my first bike, or what are other suggestions? I want to spend around $600 including seat and maintenance for my first ride. Any suggestions on the best bike to purchase?

The Rockhopper is a great bike on paper but you really have to be sure the bike fits you well. The only way you will know that is by heading into your local bike shops (LBS) and getting fitted. Maybe an equivalent bike from Trek, Kona, Specialized (Hard Rock, for example), etc. will be the best one that fits you.

So, my big recommendation is to stick to your local LBS(s) as you will need their support for fitting and maintenance. Also, check out the FAQ at the top of the thread list as you'll get more info.

+1, I purchased my first new MTB almost three years ago, an 05 Rockhopper. But only after I did exactly what Santiago said, I tried several brands, Gary Fisher, Trek, Giant, Specialized Hard Rock. When I tried the Rockhopper, I knew that was the right bike.
Most entry level bikes in your price range are good quality. Try a few, then buy from a local LBS. It's real hard to get adjustments/service over the internet, but real easy from a good LBS. Have a good time trying all those bikes.

Thanks! Do you mean by getting fitted, that I get to "test drive" them, by taking a bike from the bike shop and riding around the neighborhood, or can I ask them if I could test drive one on the trails? I don't want to seem totally clueless and have them bike-talk me into something I don't want. I know how salespeople can be. I just want a quality bike. How do I get fitted for a bike? And what knowledge do I need to know before I start talking about numbers? I want my investment to be worth the money, not get jipped...

The bike has to fit you and feel right when you ride it. So assuming you're 5'9" then you will likely fit on a Medium or a 17" bike, but you may find that you feel more comfortable riding the Trek over all others (or the Rockhopper, or the Gary Fisher, etc.)

You will be allowed to ride the bike around the parking lot/streets but someone with U.S. LBS experience can better offer explanation of what a LBS lets you do.

You can expect a certain amount off of list. I forget what the amount was. Maybe it's in the FAQ.
Once you deal with your bike shop you can expect some freebies of smallish things (tubes) and discounts on stuff like helmets.

Thanks so much Santiago and Roccobike. I'll check out the FAQs. Thanks again!

I have a rather similar story prhey404. I went to Oleta a couple years ago on my crappy kmart bike and I decided that mountain biking was fun as hell.

As everyone else said, find a bike that fits you well. Try out all the brands, don't set your mind on one brand. Try everything and see what you actually like.

Good luck.

Hey everyone, I just want to make an update. I've done my research, got some great tips on this forum, and I got the bike I've always wanted! I didn't know what fitted meant, but I went to my LBS today and tried 3 bikes. Also tried the rockhopper too. I wasn't convinced. But the third times the charm, and I'm totally happy and ready to hit the trails now!

http://www.miuz01.com/stumpjumper/my_stumpjumper.jpg

Wow, it's so beautiful, and the ride is crazy!!! Also the guy at my LBS said that after I get more into it and put in an extra K, I can easily make it 3lbs lighter. And it's already light! I live on the second floor of my apt so I will get an extra workout from carrying it up and down the stairs. I used to run competitively, so I think riding will be good since I have pretty strong legs. I'm so excited! I haven't been this excited about anything in a long time. Whoo hooo!!!

I hope you enjoy your bike.

nice bike.

Congrats. Looks good. Now, about those reflectors... ;)

im waiting for mine to break off lol

Yeah, but then they become trail litter. At night it's particularly annoying. :)

lol

oh.Id pick mine up lol.

Thanks! The reflectors will break off?

lol

Oh yeah, my reflector in the front broke off the other day, what a coinsidence :)

Banish Your Reflectors!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1