I am looking around for a bike under 500. I thought about building one but couldn't find any real deals on parts. So I looked for a good starter bike. I plan on doing a lot of riding on dirt roads and trails from begginer to advanced. I used to have an old specialized that I did a lot of riding on. I liked that I could beat it up an not worry about losing $1000. I don't plan on doing any downhill so I will stick to a hard tail. Also I live out in the desert with no real place to try out bikes before purchasing. I have found three bikes; specialized hardrock, navara portal, and jamis trail x2. I want something that I can upgrade as I gain experience. I don't mind spending money on upgrades but want to start riding now and not keep saving.

Thanks all,

Nick

For $500, I'd be surprised if you could find a decent hardtail. Might be able to get a decent rigid for that though.

Ummm....bikesdirect.com,just sayin',more bang for the buck there in a pinch