Yeah, NC here, so the only place where prices are higher really is in the mountains. Plenty of newer hardtails used around $400-500, my new to me carbon is 10 years old, but I’m not planning to use it for anything strenuous so I feel fine about it (newer full suspension carbon frames are closer to $1k usually, but they are closer to top of the line).

I mean, I got used carbon full suspension mountain bike for $500 used a few months ago, there are plenty of decent hardtail bikes lightly used for $400-500 in my area.

Some are actually decent from Walmart now, specifically their Ozark trail lineup. Basically the current CEO is really into trail riding, so they sell mountain bikes that are actually good for $400.