Well, I couldn't help going out yesterday to check out some more bikes. Stopped at Supergo and took a look at the Specialized Stumpjumper FSR (expert, 120mm) in an XL. Nice bike. $2400 ($200 off right now).

I hate credit cards too, they can be helpful at times. Almost every bank is giving away a credit card with 0% for 12 even 15 months, right now. So, I would use it and pay it off before the intro APR is over and wham, I've got a bike. I think I'm going to take advantage of their 0% financing at the store. The Santa Cruz, with no option to finance (unless it's through a credit card), and $500+ more... I think I'll go with the specialized. Plus, owning this rockhopper has been a good experience and it has held up much more reliabily than I would have expected for a 'low-end' bike.

Girlfriend broke up with me today, so no more dates/dinners/gifts, so that definitely helps out! :-P

Thanks guys