So like any kid should, I always had a bike. First a bmx, then i sorta took over my sisters All-Terrain harro V-1(she never used it). But it got stolen, and a few months later i got my license. Now im getting fat, and i miss riding my bike everywhere. but i cant spend more than $300 on a bike(im sure most of you are gasping right now).

Is an all-terrain bike that cheap something i should do alot of research on, or are they all about the same at that price? heres a list of all-terrain bikes at a store in my town. Also, we have an action sports which i didnt take a look at.

anyway, i feel stupid asking about a cheep all-terrain bike in a road cycling forum full of people who are so passionate about biking. but any help would be greatly appreciated.

- for the $$$, you can't go wrong with a Giant...

- and the bikes shown on the site look worthy... you're definitely on track by going this route instead of a box-mart bike...

- i like in an area that sports sandy off-trail conditions w/paved paths... a cyclocross bike is perfect when paired w/700x25s or 28s...

- so for your needs, an all-terrain bike could be the perfect mix?

$300 will buy you a very rideable bike for light trail and general road use. At this end of the price scale, a little extra money buys quite a bit more durability and quality in the components, esp the forks.
Most of the major brands do good versions and Giant is highly regarded, they dont make bad bikes. Do check that the bike has threaded eyelets for a rear luggage rack.
Often you can get upgrades on a new bike, one of the best is to switch the stock tyres to something suitable for your needs. Knobbly tyres come as std but for mixed use, a semi-slick (inverted tread) tyre is more efficient. For pure road riding, a 1.5" slick tyre is recomended. Kevlar protection will see off about 90% of punctures.

craigslist.

or scour the local LBS's. Deals on used bikes pop up from time to time. you can get more bike for less $$$$.

-D