tinneyr

Mickey, the first thing to realize is that a bike from Walmart, Target etc. is a mountain bike in name only. Consider that these bikes are built by whomever is working in that department at the time and typically has no experience with building a bike. Now, I'm not here to put anyone down but you get what you pay for. Such a bike would be good for one or two rides before you got frusterated with the mechanics of it. Any off road riding would further complicate matters. Bottom line is it is a much wiser investment to visit your local bike shop. Even purchasing the basic bike they have would let you take advantage of their mechanical expertise and to help fit you to your new bike. I started out with a basic bike and then got hooked on riding. I gradually upgraded over the years (don't ask how much my current bike cost) and started racing and taking mountain biking trips all over Texas and the Southwest. As far as which brand to buy, people have their preferences but they are all pretty much the same in quality. I hope this 2 cents helps and keep us posted.