If you want a do-all hardtail then you'll have to spend at least
$700 for an all mountain hardtail. for under $300 though you can
get a pretty good BMX or dirt jump bike. but like a said, for a
mountain bike, you'll have to save up a bit more.
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Both Harley Davidson softails and hardtails look very similary.
The main difference is really a matter of the suspensions. On the
softail model there is a rear suspension that makes for a much
smoother ride than the hardtail. The hardtail frame is all one
piece in which the rear axle attaches directly to the frame.
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On downhill trails hardtail mountain bikes are harder to
control, vice full suspension. So improve your skills by getting a
hardtail.