MTB noob help please

[theshrew]

Im looking to buy a new bike as i want to start going off road. Trouble is im not to sure which are good / bad bikes or what the best thing to do is.

I dont really want to spend more than £600 hopefully less
Ive had a look at reviews and the Specialized Hardrock seems a good bit of kit for the cash.

Or possibly a 2nd had better bike. If i buy 2nd hand am i likely to be having to repair a load of stuff on it ? Do parts wear out quite quickly etc ?

Im unsure what to do - I dont really want to buy somethiing that i will need to upgrade in the near future when i get into MTB a bit more or have to spend a load of cash on a old banger.

What would you do in my shoes ? What bikes would you be looking at ?

[theshrew]

Well ive started to yes, just on a real cheap old bike i got years ago. Wanted to try and get my legs and bottom back into riding again before i went off road ( wont on the bike i have now anyway )

I will need a helmet, gloves and some spares. Not to botherd about clothes for now i can get them as and when.

[theshrew]

This might sound silly but what is the difference between for eg a Hardrock and a Rockhopper ? Obviously have different spec but in what way ? The more cash are the bikes lighter, better built, and stronger ?

Its about £200 difference but what the hell do you get for the extra cash ? This is what im trying to way up

[theshrew]

Thanks for the help so far keep the replies comming