Let me start by saying, I recommended a Tassajara to a co-worker.

I think it's a good bike and the fork is comparable to similarly priced bikes. To say it's junk is being a SNOB and I have problems with that. It does it's job and is a good spec for that bike. The fork is no Marzocchi Z1, but the Z1 costs as much as the entire bike.

The Deore components are good components and what I consider the "work horse" level from Shimano. They're not superlightweight, but they are durable as heck. As a beginner you will be more abusive on your bike/gear. As skill improves and you learn to become a smoother rider, you can upgrade componets. Don't worry about this as a newbie. Concentrate on having fun and less with keeping up with the Joneses.

The Tassajara is a good choice as is the K2. Go with the one that "feels" better regardless of component spec.

L8R