Some good suggestions. If it were me I would not get a bike with a front shock unless you are planning on doing more rugged trail work. For paved paths, crushed rock and the occasional fire road an MTB with no shock will work just fine, the shock just adds weight and robs energy. I would also make sure the bike can take a front and rear rack and fenders, that means mounting eyes on the front and rear forks. I say this because if you get into this, you are looking at a setup that you can turn into a grocery getter, touring, or commuter bike which is something that even a hard core roadie or stump jumper can always use in their stable. It will also just make a comfortable MUP bike if that's all you ever want to do. I agree with the triple crankset, preferable with MTB gearing. And yes - make sure it fits well.