Yes, an air-sprung fork is what you want but might not be spec'd until you get into the $1300-1500 and up price range. Do you absolutely need an air-sprung one? No, a coil-spring fork is fine but the bike will be a tad heavier and the ride not as plush (think std. mattress vs memory foam--but faster rebound than memory foam). Being a new mtb rider, you probably won't care or realize the difference anyway. You can always upgrade the fork or the entire bike as you advance.