If your leaning towards the 500 range then the Specialized Rockhopper may be something to look at. I'm sure you could get last years model for about 400 and they have much better components. My LBS has last years Rockhopper Comp FSR for 800 which I think is about 300 dollars under the retail so I'm sure they could knock 100 or so off the 02 RH hardtail's retail.