What MTB for $500?

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Hi guys,

Just looking around for a new mountainbike to replace my 12ish yr old AVANTI montari.

Can only afford up to $500 sadly,
Basic wish list
Light alloy hardtail frame (low dirtjump style?)
Decent shocks (not much travel needed as I don't go hard offroad, but lockout would be great!)
Decent drivetrain

are Discs worth it?

The local shop sells the usual apollo, Gitane, Giant stuff.
What brands should i look for?

Cheers Pete

Discs will prevent your rims from slowly being eaten up by grit. I don't know if many mtbs come without them these days. If you ride in wet or muddy conditions, they move the braking away from the mud and confine the wear to easily replaced items.

Have you looked at upgrading instead of replacing? You could get some pretty good stuff for less than $500.