I am looking at purchasing a 29er HT. Currently I'm quite happy with my Trance full suspension trail bike, but would like to have a 29er to ride as well. I test rode a 29er during a recent Fat Tire Festival and I can see the benefits offered in specific situations.

I'm thinking this bike will be secondary bike so I want to keep the price point between $1,000 - $1,500.

Any suggestions? For the price range, I was looking at the Specialized Rockhopper Pro, TREK Cobia, TREK, X-Caliber, and the Gary Fisher X-Caliber.

Are there some other 29er brands that aren't as well known that offer a good product in that price range?

Thoughts?
Thanks!