I appreciate this thread - Thanks Sunedog - I have always wanted a more serious mountain bike than what I have (90's giant). I was not impressed with what people were asking (on CL at least) for older/much older bikes that were a better brand than what I have - I'm thinking that you need to get to know some people/shops if you want something good for under $500

I can see how it'd work to go with a front-suspension only for a while - I've seen a few trails near Cincinnati here and they look like all you really need is knobby tires and front suspension. I've ridden a few already, but not very hard (on my current bike - no suspension, rim brakes...)

-John

__________________
2009 Kia Sedona
2009 Honda Odyssey EX-L
12006 Jetta Pumpe Duse
(insert Mercedes here)

Husband, Father, sometimes friend =)