I like rigid froks better. Save your money and just buy a nice bike like a new rockhopper or something (just picked that because its all that came to mind in the 1k range) Im selling my tora for a rigid carbon. Alot lighter. Most people frown upon this site but
www.bikesdirect.com has great deals. Motobecane is a great value but the build quality isnt the best from what I hear. I have the rigid outcast 29er ss, the fantom ht comp i think and the fantom cx (cyclocross). They are all fine bikes. I really like the new rockhopper comp too. Its a nicer bike but lesser components. I had an 06 rockhopper and loved it to death.
Disclaimer: I'm not trying to start a debate about motobecane and how they suck, are great or how they compare to big name companies. I'm simply stated my opinion which I am entitled to.