I'm really fallin in love with the beefy specialized frame even though it has less frame sizes to choose from. I sat on the "medium" and it seems all right to me. Although I haven't test ridden it yet. I just went into the store to see whats there and to make up my mind. I'm gonna make the purchase tommorow. Again, I'm leaning toward the hardrock cause of the frame and the $339.00 of the trek 4300 will add up to like $370.00 which is kinda rich for my blood.
And also both the trek and specialized models at the shop gonna be v brakes not disc brakes most likely and the forks seem the same RST I think. So not much difference there.
They do have a hardrock with disc brakes but thats like $439.00 and I don't think as a beginner I will know the difference.
The specialized hardrock for $329.00 plus tax will be bout $350.00. The bike shop guy seems cool and offering lots of help in terms of info. Plus they gonna switch out the tires for something more dual purpose for road and dirt.

What can you suggest in terms of tires? Any brands or types? And should I keep the forks or should I ask for a change out of the shocks for something similar in price but better.

Thanks for the help.