forsyth

Depends what you want to spend - what's your budget like?
If you're looking just for general riding then I wouldn't spend too much on a bike - anything under $500 would be plenty.
Department store bikes are not too bad dependent on where you go - some have inferior components but I would suggest looking online and you'll get some good deals.
Here's some good info on bikes under $300 - <a href="http://promountainbiker.com...under-300/">Mountain bikes under $300</a>

Im looking for recommendations for a new mountain bike for my kid. Just general riding nothing heavy for trail riding. What do you guys think of department store bikes?