I'd recommend a steel frame (cromoly steel, not high tensile steel), an 80mm travel suspension fork, and Shimano Deore components. This should put you in the sub $500 range, of which there should be several models to look at. All the large brands will make bikes in this price range.

I'd not recommend an aluminum frame since it will be stiffer than cromoly steel, and so it will wear you out more both on & off road. Hardcore riders will take this in stride in order to get the lighter weight and responsiveness. You can go with aluminum if you get a suspension seatpost. Don't substitute a "cushy" saddle, though, as these will often chafe after a few hours in the saddle.

Any good bike shop will be wiling to swap out components depending on your needs (less agressive on/off road tires, different saddle, etc.). A good bike shop will sell you a bike that fits you, that you're comfortable on. If you don't like riding it, you won't... simple as that.

That said, check out mtbr.com for some more specifics on brands. I'd recommend Specialized and Giant. Maybe Trek (though I see a LOT of Treks... yawn).

Don't discount smaller up&coming marques either (Soma Fabrications, Surly, etc.). Poll your friends, see who MTBs a lot, and take them with you to a bike shop. Don't be afraid to buy a used bike - they will typically cost 1/2 to 1/3 of what a new bike costs after only a few years. Also, go with quality bike shorts and breathable clothing and a HELMET to make biking as enjoyable as possible.

Good luck,

JMJ


posted by 72.12.37...

• Good bike brands for once-in-a-while weekend use?, Tony, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 08:48:03
  • Jeep or Kawasaki bikes, anyone? NM, Tony, Wed, 4 Apr 2007 09:05:24
  • Re: Good bike brands for once-in-a-while weekend use?, dr fall, Wed, 4 Apr 2007 06:49:52
  • Thank you everyone!, Tony, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 20:03:06
  • Forget brands - look for quality, components, fit, JMJ in NC, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 14:55:19 <-- Viewing This Message
  • Re: Good bike brands for once-in-a-while weekend use?, Mattias.se, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 13:23:03
  • I bet you don't mean a BMW F650GS....., Mike Lynch , Tue, 3 Apr 2007 11:52:34
  • The absolute best mix of value, quality and performance, kevine, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 11:40:16
  • Go to a few Local Bike Shops..., PGAero , Tue, 3 Apr 2007 10:15:54
    • Oh, a couple fo things..., PGAero , Wed, 4 Apr 2007 10:45:39
  • Re: Good bike brands for once-in-a-while weekend use?, yoeddy, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 09:35:12
  • For flat terrain or pavement love my Townie by Electra, JBack, Tue, 3 Apr 2007 08:54:22

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