Originally Posted by timhines
Specialized Hardrocks fit that price range. Specialized stands behind their products as well. Worth looking in to.
Do some searches in the MTN BIKE forum here and you'll find plenty of advice!
+1...I'd check out Specialized, Marin, some Treks as well
Maybe its just me, but it looks like Kona has started using cheaper build components over the last couple of years. They still have those good frames, but seem to be a couple of grades below their competition at similar price points.