I'm starting to think that this is too good a point -- especially since I'm planning to put $$ into the parts, paying that much for just the frame (and keeping all the vintage Deore XT in a box) is just pushing it. I've never ridden either, tbh, and I'm just jumping in. The Grizzly is an hour drive away, so I'm not really trying to just go and have a test ride. But I appreciate your thoughts on the ride quality differences! Can you say a bit more?