Originally Posted by
njkayaker
I know about that BD bike (the price I can get for the Fuji is competative). Thanks.
All reasonable comments. Thanks.
I currently have an ancient no-suspension MTB. I haven't been MTB for a few years (family complications and lots of road biking). I was reasonably OK on the no-suspension, which might mean I might not need a full-suspension (and the extra maintanence).
Some places (Stewart Buffer Zone, NY, where I have ridden) might not need full suspension. It might be useful in Ringwood (supposedly, somewhat difficult), and "Great Adventure"/ West Milford, NJ, which are near by places to go.
I've ridden the Fuji (in a parking lot). A few years ago, I tried a Cannondale 29er with a lefty fork in a better place. Seemed OK to me (I wasn't looking then, so I didn't pay attention to the model number!).
My budget is about $1000 (give or take a few hundred). I'm not sure if I want to go as high as $2000.
I'm not in your area so have no idea what type of riding the places you mention offers. No place really "needs" full suspension, but it can make it more enjoyable.
I have no idea what lines shops in your area carry or if they're competitively priced at that.
For $1000 I'd look at hardtails with a decent fork. Googling a bit found this, spec looks pretty nice for the price (no idea if it's an ongoing sale or just an old item, though)
http://www.o2gearshop.com/catalog/pr...LAID=340220190. $2000 opens up the options into fs, but barely, maybe something like this for a little more (plus you get your 29er on with this one)
http://www.speedgoat.com/Catalog.aspx/Browse?Prod=18589. I know a few guys who have the Big Mama and like it a lot.