Thanks for the comments. I agree, and hence my original credibility question.

There do seem to be interesting models on ebay (links below since you mention being in the market, and this time, with named parts.) But ebay "reviews" tend to be about the transaction, and are unfailingly positive. Logically, this should harm rather than benefit the sellers if they have a good product. Hence was hoping some test rides exist out there, or that ebay sellers get a local bike club or shop to test ride them.

http://cgi.ebay.com/NR-BRAND-NEW-26-...QQcmdZViewItem

and

http://cgi.ebay.com/alloy-YOUPAL-26-...QQcmdZViewItem