[nogochickenfro]

I have a friend who has recently started biking. He is currently riding a sweet 1990s Neon Green Diamondback with a rigid fork that he got from a yard sale for $10.

Obviously, he needs to upgrade.

His budget is $5-600. He knows that he wont get a lot for that much.

Added difficulty: He is going on a trip with me to Maine this summer where we will be hitting places such as Arcadia in RI, Fort Rock and Pawtuckaway in NH, Case Mt. and/or Westwoods in Conn, and Bradbury Mt. in Maine.

I don't want him to die!

I have a Jamis Trail X3 he can use for the time being that I have/am trashing while I am building up a new ride.

 

[GuruAtma]

Probably a used bike is the best. KHS has some affordable bikes that are decent quality. If you can find a used one, you'll be good.

 

[01tj]

I've been looking in Motobecans from www.bikesdirect.com I am still on the fence about buying online but they do have some nice bikes in your friends price range

ex
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom_trail08.htm

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mountain_bikes.htm

 

[reptilezs]

at 500 or so most of the bikes are going to be about the same. if you know what you are looking for look for a used bike. it will take a while for the right one to come up but will be worth it.

 

[TreeSaw]

Defniitely check out some used bikes. I would think a hardtail with a good fork would be a nice ride, but you might get lucky and find a decent FS rig.

 

[nogochickenfro]

Awesome, thanks guys! I have been keeping my eyes open for used bikes, but there aren't many good deals in my area as of late.

 

[Sir_Crackien]

hence the reason you look on line and get one shipped to you. to be honest there are not that many bikes being sold in anyone area.