Originally Posted by Raiyn
Exactly what you should have done
Who says he'll walk the sections? If you start out on a FS you're relying on the rear suspension to bail you out without learning any control skills. Eventually you'll get to a section where not being able to pick a good line WILL have consequences regardless of suspension.
Wait you forgot your change.
Invariably, there are sections of certain trails that are infinitely more ridable on a FS bike than they are on a HT; that's a simple fact. While you are correct that there are certain sections of trail that are going to depend entirely upon the skill level of the rider, there are others that will be mitigated somewhat by the amount of travel you have in the rear of your bike.
Let's face it, the FS revolution is in full effect and there are virtually no reasons to purchase a HT over a FS bike when you have the capital to choose one or the other. HTs are quickly becoming another version os SSs in today's MTB world; they're a niche player for the diehard fan but, for the vast majority of the people out there (we're talking serious riders here, not guys who spend $500 or less on a "mountain bike") the benefits of having a FS bike is going to far outweigh the very, very slight weight and pedaling efficiency (on smooth climbs only BTW) advantages you get with a HT.