If you want something reliable, $700 is the starting point. Most of what you get at that price point is going to have similar components, so check a few shops and see if there are still deals on last years models. You may get something closer to $600 and not much changes between years. Find what is comfortable, brand isn't all that important. I always say to buy from whatever bike shop is convenient for you to re-visit for service. The only thing I'd watch for at that price point is try to get hydraulic disc brakes, not mechanical ones. If they won't budge on price, see if you can get a few things thrown in(helmet, bike lock, gloves etc), or discounts on them. I don't think MEC does that but some shops do, though I'm not sure they have much room on those lower end bikes.
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