for two thousand dollars you can get a super kick a$$ bicycle. for 3 thousand, you can get a bike that will have more than you will need as a beginner.
try as many bikes as you can, find the brand that fits you best and you are most comfortable on (each bike company is different and has a different geometry. an 18" trek feels different than an 18" rocky mountain. the only way to know what is right for you is for you to ride the bike and see), then see what is available in your price range and get it. whatever you get, if you are spending 2K on it, it will be more than enough for you and you won't have to worry if it's "good." it will be good.
just so you know....
you do not need XTR. slx or xt is just fine.
this goes with everything. you don't need top of the line anything, especially as a beginner. get 2nd best, or even 3rd best and learn how to ride a mountain bike. then, as you need to, upgrade.
Last edited by pablosnazzy; 08-17-11 at 12:12 PM.