Can't decide between two bikes.
I found a Specialized Stuntjumper Comp 29 on CL for $850 (retailed around $1800). he says he just rebuilt the fork as well. The specialized has a 17" 2011 frame and handlebars but all 2008 components. Story is he bought a 2008, was racing and the frame broke so he got a new one. It also comes with Shimano SPD pedals From the picture he put on CL it looks to be in very good condition and he took good care of it.
My other choice is a new Trek X-Caliber 8. I would go with the 19.5" frame on this bike.
I'm 5'11" I would assume it would be less of a problem going a little smaller on size for a bike than going too big. Any thoughts on this and would the frame size difference lead to be not liking the ride in the end? I might be able to test ride it but it is about 2 hours drive away.

Specialized '08 components
Fork: Rock Shox Reba SL 29, 80mm of travel, air spring,
Brakes:Custom Avid Juicy 5 SL, hydraulic disc, 160mm rotor
Front Derailleur: Shimano M581 LX, 34.9mm clamp, bottom swing, dual pull
Rear Derailleur: SRAM X-9, mid cage
Shifter: SRAM X-7, trigger
Cassette: Shimano HG-50, 9-speed, 11-34t
Crank: Shimano A/A/S 2pc custom

Trek X-Caliber 8 components
Fork: RockShox XC32 ,coil spring
Shifters: SRAM X5, 9 speed
Front Derailleur: SRAM X5
Rear Derailleur: SRAM X7
cassetteShimano HG20 11-34, 9 speed
Crank: SRAM S800