The problem is, I rode both $300 and $4000 bikes today (on and off trails) and couldn't tell much difference. I'm not doubting that you guys can discern between them, but I simply cannot. That leads me to believe that a low-end starter bike would be best...something that could be scrapped, upgraded, or traded for a superbike as my hobby suits. I'm the all-or-none type, and I fear the $1200 bikes would overinvest me or make me wish that I had just went all-out in my purchase. Keep in mind this is my first mountain bike. I'm here because I like to make educated choices on any purchase. Right now I think I've got myself talked into the sub-$500 range, but I DO value expert opinions even if you try to sway me away from this range.