Well I just got back from the Rockhopper test drive, and the sales guy at the shop recommended a size 23 instead of 21 b/c I'm 6'4". I hope he is correct b/c the Marlin felt fine with only a few minutes of test, but the sales guy was saying after a long ride I will feel the difference if I'm on a bike that is too small for me.

So far - it looks like everyone is recommending the Marlin - anyone out there a fan of the Rockhopper? Right now I have hesitations about both bikes so I'm still undecided. The Marlin b/c it doesn't come in a 23 (if that in fact is the size that I need) and the Rockhopper b/c I think it has integrated shimano shifters? which I heard is more expensive to replace b/c you have to replace the WHOLE part vs. shifters that aren't integrated and only having to replace the broken piece. After typing that - I realize that is probably a pretty insignificant hesitation compared to a bike that may or may not be my size!

Any recommendations on fitting the bike?