The shock brand sounds vaguely familiar - Some freeride and DH guys here would know how it rates with other long-travel shocks. The next level up would get you the Fox Shock, but would put you above your price range. If you're looking to do trailriding, the BigHit probably isn't for you anyways. I have always thought of the BigHit as something more free-ride/jump oriented. Something like the Giant VT would be more what you were looking for in a trailbike. Kona also makes some good trail bikes. The Specialized Enduro might also be worth a look. Like dirtbikedude, I too have heard some very good things about the VT. One of the recent MTB mags had a review on the Giant VT. Also, don't forget about
www.mtbr.com for reviews and to see if long-term users of the bikes you are looking at have experienced any problems.
-Moab