Originally posted by Maelstrom
You CAN'T get a good full suspension bike for under 1000$ american. I wouldn't personally consider one for under 1500 american.
That said you can get some awesome ht's in the 600$ american range. This is a great time to get bikes. The 2002's are cheap and coming down so you may be able to find some great bikes cheap.
Yup, this is also my opinion. You can get a good HT for the money you're willing to spend. Unless you're willing to buck up a bit, FS bikes @ this price-point have some serious compromises in terms of either the frame or the components or BOTH.
Now go out and get that HT and ride, man! Good luck!