[onewhippedpuppy]

Z, I just bought a used Specialized Rockhopper from Craigslist for $225, the same thing I would have spent on a POS Walmart bike. It was about $850 new. The biggest and most obvious difference to me (fat out of shape riding in town) is the frame, it is dramatically lighter than the cheap big box store bikes. I also went to a bike store and "tried on" frame sizes, then was able to Craigslist shop for the right size for me. Assuming I get into shape and want to get more serious with trail stuff (I hope), I already have a good frame and components to start with and would probably upgrade to a better front shock.