Advice for beginner

Hello all...

I'm in the process of moving to a new city and in doing so...have decided to pick up mountain biking as a hobby. To be honest, I've always wanted to do it but just never pulled the trigger.

I've been looking at a lot of different bikes online and to be honest, have no clue what I'm looking at...

I'd really like to stay in the $300-$400 range. I currently have my eyes set on the Specialized Hardrock brand. Does anybody know the difference btwn the hardrock and hardrock sport?

Just looking for anyone's advice on good beginner bikes. Any fellow beginners and what you may have purchased.

Thanks in advance

Hardrock: 21 speed
Hardrock Sport: 24 speed

If you are limited to $400, I'd buy used. Or buy something like this new: Motobecane 600HT

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"There is alot of blather here that does not float the hooey barge." boudreaux 11/22/2005