John, the Suntour suspension is just ok...but for what you are spending and with some carefull shopping, you can find some excellent deals on 2006 bikes.
I just picked up a 2006 Iron Horse Expert from Performance on sale at $550., then applied a member coupon for another 20% off to get me at $440...screaming deal and I got lucky as I was ready to buy at the higher amount. The suspension is Marzocchi MZ and it works well for my 215lbs.
Check out
http://www.rscycle.com/s.nl/sc.7/category.56/.fthe Iron Horse Warrior (has the Judy shock too). These bikes were also on sale last week at 20% off . Also try Performancebike.com., they frequently offer coupons too.
I am more than pleased about my Iron Horse...feels better than my Rockhopper with a slightly more compact frame.
Happy hunting and let us know what you find.