The XT line is the best bang for the buck... XTR not worth the premium in cost-to-performance ratio... what is your budget... Mountain Bike Action magazine did a recent test/review on SC Blur, Titus RacerX, and some other mid-range priced XC bikes... Supergo.com has a great deal on a K2 Team Razorback at a killer price for the bike and components (have to call or email for this particular bike)... the Tomac '98 Special at JensonUSA is also a pretty good deal... I think disc brakes are worth the upgrade... Price Point has the Avid Mechanicals at a great price... now you have to fill us in on what you decide... best of luck!