Couple other thoughts. Regarding fenders. Do you want a commuter type fender or a moto fender (similar to a Motocross Motorcycle) If you want a great looking fender that is very light and looks great (IMO) check out Toby Hendersen Enterprises (THE) most mail-order mountain bike sites carry them. I don't have their web address, but a quick search should prove successful. They come in a variety of colors and they have many styles to virtually fit any application. (No, I don't work for them, I just like their products).

Back to the brakes thingy. The vee brakes will work great for 99% of your riding. The only time you really need discs, as stated is in muddy downhill conditions. Granted I'm running disc on my bike, for three reasons. 1) I work at a shop and get a good deal on em. 2)I'm riding a Cannondale Lefty and have no choice but to use discs. 3)Let's face it, I like to have cool things on my bike. But I work at a shop, so I'm constantly tinkering with my bike.

Also, the fork on the 2000 is a good fork. It's not top of the line, but it'll work great for you for years to come.

BTW, I've got a couple of bikes and on my other bike, I'm running the same exact brakes and levers that are on the 2000 model. They work great and once set-up you can leave alone!

Good luck and post a pic of whichever bike you end up with!