$500 bike for Newb?

[Tame Ape]

I've got a friend who has asked me to help him find a beginner MTB. He doesn't seem to have a good deal of cash and is having trouble finding a used frame that'l fit him because of his tallboyness. He'll just be trail riding with it, nothing crazy.

Suggestions?

[MtnbikeMike]

Specialized Hardrock? Those seem to sell like hotcakes at the LBS and everyone loves 'em.

[Tame Ape]

Thats what he was already talking about too. The price is certainly right but I know that fork will suck.

[MtnbikeMike]

Well, most forks will suck in that price range.

[Frorider1]

Well for 350 or whatever hardrocks are costing these days you can't expect quality components. Most decent forks cost at least 500 alone, considering hes planning on buying a whole bike for that price I wouldnt complain.

[Angus]

Check out a Gary Fisher Marlin $500 Deore der and Manitou Axel w/ lockout...

[loco-gringo]

I'd go with a Hardrock Sport disc for that price.

[Angus]

I'd go with a Hardrock Sport disc for that price.

We carry both GF and the Big red, S I would rather have better derailer and fork over second rate disc brakes....

[Ra/\/dom_Guy]

TRY this:

http://www.CRAIGSLIST.com

[V-Dub GTI]

I had a specialized hardrock pro disc that i got for $500 from the LBS. It lasted me for a year, and was still going strong, but I sold it for a DH bike. I wished I hadent sold it, I loved that bike. Oh and I rode a large at 6' tall if that helps.