This would be a personal thing but really Marz is slowly migrating to other markets besides dh and fr. And with the 888 has a definate racing contender. Its xc stuff is looking good too now. (for racing)

Manitou has really stepped up in the last 2 years and is generally getting a lot more respect and offers decent prices.

Personally I don't know of any bikes here sold without Marzochi forks except high end dhillers that have a) boxxer or b) dorado. I think RS is getting the stagnent rap