Originally Posted by velogirl
Go used. You'll get a better bike that you won't be so protective of, and you'll have more fun and less worry.
I'm not a fan of suspension for non-rad riding. It's difficult to find mtn. bikes without suspension these days. Another reason to get a slightly older bike--there used to be more choice in normal-forked bikes.
Not really, most 'core' frame makers don't build up bikes.
We're talkin BIKES not 'packages'.
Put whatever fork you want on.
2 extremes..(both steel) mtb.
I got something close to the Ritch. Just need the freerider.
http://www.243racing.com/page155.htm
I'm not so hot on non-suspension Alu mtb.
Oh ya cheap...Alu, maybe an older Kona mtb. Put on a suspension seat.