hey guys, new to the mountain forum, frequent road and commuting.

I'm in the market for a SS 29er. I've looked at the Nashbar one, it looks decent.

Nashbar: http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/ProductDisplay?storeId=10053&langId=-1&catalogId=10052&productId=502354&cm_mmc=$(referrer)$-_-Bicycles-_-Nashbar-_-NB-SSMBD&CSE=GooglePS&mr:trackingCode=7DCBFC0F-F9E1-DE11-974B-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA

Bike Direct (sorry I'm using internet sources, but these seem like good prices) has one: http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/se/stout.htm
--> I could probably order this from my LBS, they stock SE.

also, the Redline Monocog. It's not that expensive (msrp $419) and I could probably get it from a LBS nearby.

I'm leaning towards the Redline, just because it seems to be a nice basic frame. I'll probably get some Shimano SPD shoes/pedals right away, and see what I want to upgrade after that.

any other bikes I should be looking at? I'd like to keep it under $500 if possible. I want this as a trail bike, as well as an around town ride.

happy riding!