I'm considering buying a mountain bike. Recommendations?

[maveric]

Whats size frame? I'm 5'10" 190 lbs.
What brand name?
What gadgets should I look for or steer away from.
How many speeds<?> Gears??

[DS1]

1. Go to a bike store and get sized

internet guesses will be useless, as everyone's different

[maveric]

2. I'm trying to avoid the bike shops.

Because I'm looking for a used one. But it wouldnt hurt just looking around and getting sized.
Do you know what brands are better than others?
"Shimano Gears" seem to show up in the used bike ads.

[LeftyMom]

3. Look for something light

I bought my kid's dad a used Marin Muirwoods for $20 on Craigslist and that thing is light as a feather and an absolute dream to ride. Lightness is a pretty good indicator of quality and makes for a less tiring ride, especially when hills are involved.

[maveric]

4. I saw a Marin Muirwoods on Craigslist. $80.00.

I like the "light" feature too.
What was the frame size? Do you know anything about Shimano gears? They seem to be a hot selling point.

[LeftyMom]

5. nah, I don't work on 'em much, I just ride

Have you asked down in the cycling group?

[maveric]

6. Hey! Thats right! We have a cyclist group here on DU.

Thanks! I'm going there right now.

[taterguy]

7. trust me

Go to your friendly local bike shop. Even if you're buying used, get it checked out by a mechanic. Bike maintenance is very labor intensive and expensive when compared to the price of a bike. I had one that needed more repairs than its retail value, instead of being a slime and selling it I used it as an emergency spare.

My favorite gadget is a Camelbak water system, makes rides much more enjoyable if you can stay hydrated the whole time. I also like my Rio Karma portable music doohickey. I have a music mix of upbeat tunes that I crank up during breaks. Good maps help and a small bag to carry them. The only other gadget I use is a basic cycling computer so I can know how fast and how far I'm going.

[underpants]

8. Yeah- the bike shop guys love introducing new people to the sport

they tend to be really friendly and very helpful.

[LSK]

9. check out this site

http://www.mtbr.com/