You all were helpful in a previous post of mine, so I thought I'd look to the pros for some more advice. Still new to mountain biking (specifically XC) and still looking for a bike. After borrowing some bikes from friends and test riding at a few LBS, I like the feel of Kona. I was looking for a Caldera based on some feedback in these forums and other reviews I've read. So far, no dealers have had a 2005 for me to see. One had a Cinder Cone, which is about $150 cheaper but does not come in a 17". Most shops have put me on a 17" or 18". Here are my questions:

1) Is the extra $150 for the Caldera worth it in components?
2) Would there be a big difference in feel from 17" to 18" (assuming I go with the Cinder Cone and the 17" is not a choice).

I've attached links to both the Caldera and Cinder Cone...
http://www.konaworld.com/shopping_ca...1&parentid=182
http://www.konaworld.com/shopping_ca...0&parentid=182

Thanks for your help.