After borrowing bikes all summer it is finally time to buy my first MTB. I have read the FAQs and narrowed my choice down to three bikes. They all feel good to me and suit the riding I do which is mostly bike path/trail and a little asphalt. I feel like more road is in my future but I like the trails for the fun factor.

My candidates are:

Trek 4300 (everybody picks a Trek, I know)
Kona Fire Mountain or Lanai
Haro Escape or Escape Sport

These are entry level bikes I realize and I know their components are pretty basic but probably all I need for a couple of years. Any thoughts or opinions from the forum will be most apopreciated as I would like to buy myself a birthday present this month :-)

Thanks and Peace to all...

The Kona Fire Mountain and Haro Escape are better spec'd, but they are all similar. I would buy the one that fits you better and feels better. If they all feel the same and fit good then buy the one you think looks best. Good luck and enjoy your new bike!

I've got a Trek 4500. $500. Love it.

Never been on either of the other two.