Originally Posted by
bruce19
I ride a Masi Gran Criterium S (2007 model). Perfect road bike size for me is 56-57 cm C to C. The trails are basically wider, grassy trails kind of like a logging road. Moderate hills and my back is fine. Not the same I know, but I've done 1,000 mi. days on my Ducati and can easily do 50 mi. days on the Masi. My back is not an issue.
YOu probably would do fine with a hardtail, either 26" or 29er, your preference. The more you spend, the better quality. Try to get something with a decent fork, hydraulic disc brakes and SLX or X.9 components if you can, but mechanical discs and Deore are not bad. I am most familiar with Specialized, so I would look at a Stumpumper Comp or down to a mid level Rockhopper.