To all Bicycle Enthusiasts: What Kind of Bike should I buy?

[jack]

I am going to be riding mostly on the street, but i want to be able to go off the street if i feel like it. Should i get a bmx, all terrain, mountain bike, or what other kind? I am looking to spend around $500 so whats a good, basic, dependable, light, overall good bike for that price?

 

[Flying_Monkeys_Stole_It.]

Hard tail mountain bikes are your best choice, as you can still accelerate on pavement pretty well, have a good climbing bike, and it will still go off- road.