Trail Cyclists: Help me find a decent trail bycicle to buy? (used)

[Kalrog]

You asked about pricing... you can sure get a good used bike for $500. Most frames will be aluminum and that is just fine. Some will be steel and some carbon fiber - but I don't suggest carbon for used bikes because it can be damaged internally and you won't know it. And because it is more expensive.

A 29er is probably a better idea for those 6' and more, but a 26" bike will be okay as well. And a good front shock is probably all you can go for at that price - although there will be some good full suspensions at that price if you look around well. You might want to go for a disk brake. It can be better in some cases, but it isn't needed. If you find a good one with disk, go for it. If you find a good one without disk, go for it.

I have preferred sram on my road stuff. Shimano is good as well.

[offcamber]

Don't forget ebay. If you don't mind piecing it together you can get some great bargains buying the parts and putting it together. I picked up an unused Santa Cruz Heckler frame for $300. Found a few more parts and used what I had sitting in the garage and I ended up with this after an afternoon...

[HuyMan]

I bought my Trek on craigslist for a very good deal look around. You'll find one!