Features to look for in a new general-purpose bike.

[Ataraxis]

Hello folks,

As mentioned in my previous thread http://www.bicycles.net.au/forums/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=48301, I'm looking for a new general-purpose bicycle for myself to use on a combination of road and established bush trails for fitness and recreational use. Initially I will not be riding over rocky terrain, downhill racing or using overly wet, muddy tracks. For those who don't mind answering them, I have a few questions on what to look for. If the question can be adequately answered with a link, I'd be equally grateful. As this is my first purchase of a reasonable quality bike, I've set my upper limit at $500, although I'd prefer to keep things under $400 if possible as my budget is limited.

MTB or Hybrid? My initial reading and impressions gave me the impression that for general-purpose use for both road and trail, I'd be best off with a MTB however, I've also read a few posts that recommend a hybrid for comfort and efficiency. Would a hybrid be suitable for my aforementioned needs?

Rim brakes or Disc? I get the clear impression that disc brakes are superior for reliability, particularly in wet weather. Do I actually require them for my needs though? Will a decent set of v-brakes suffice?

Wheels & Tires. Should I stick with standard MTB wheels or should I consider semi-thin as on some hybrids? Is there such thing as a general purpose tread that can be used with at least some efficiency for both road and trail or is specialisation unavoidable?

What need does full suspension fill? I see that the majority of bikes are hardtail, with a few special-purpose bikes using fully rigid frames. I assume that front suspension will be adequate for my needs. For me, the costs alone are prohibitive.

Thanks in advance.

[ozdavo]

Where are you located? It will help with recommendations of good local bike shops (LBS's). Also do you know anyone who rides regularly who might be able to assist with reviewing potential second hand purchases, or are you only looking at new?

[mitzikatzi]

Depending where you are. This is a good buy even with freight IMHO if your size. There are other bikes in the for sale section that are good too this one was on top.
WYS Adel : Fluid Rythym MTB 19"

[Ataraxis]

I've updated my profile to include my location. I live in Toowoomba, Queensland. I lived for a year in Brisbane which has some fantastic dedicated cycling tracks but alas Toowoomba has very little (that I'm aware of) beyond shared footpaths and a few painted road lanes. At present I don't know anybody else that regularly cycles. I'm thinking of looking into local bike clubs to get myself better acquainted with the facilities in the area. As for second hand sales, I haven't been able to find much in the area on local papers or online sites such as bikeexchange.com.au and eBay. I could always buy from Brisbane at the cost of about $30 in petrol and a few hours of time.

[mitzikatzi]

A search on bikexchange 100km radius of 4350 and $400
finds
JAMIS Trail XR (2011)
trek mountain 3500-disc
mountain haro-flighline-one

a few more options with a $500 max search

also if you good with "tools" and learning from you tube videos then Cell bikes has several bikes under $500

[Ataraxis]

True, now that I have a better idea of what I'm looking for I'll give second hand another look. 100km from Toowoomba basically starts to cover Brisbane.