you could also look into the out of bounds series by kona. the 2004 lineup has some pretty slick bikes that are in line with the specialized p series. if you are riding more aggressively, i would recommend something aside the one you are looking at. it appears to be more geared towards exclusively xc and it would suck if you busted something on it quickly. i think many people on here could vouch for the konas. i have never ridden one. i did enjoy the p2 that i rode though. however, i decided to bite the bullet and custom build my next ride instead.