Hi. For RiderX SSEvang. thanks, yeah, i kinda last week told the shop i wanted to think about it (check it out more, which obviously i have been doing like crazily-thoroughly on here!)

They have been v. nice about it. Yeah, the newer models for PM Marin don't come out even till mid-Feb. Giant had some very nice bikes that I tried out which were on close out too. I also tried what is called a GT Agressor which was on sale for 750. i think on close out, a last yr. model, but the size was a bit either too big , maybe why i felt it didn't ride as smooth, but i have heard that it is a very good deal. What sold me on steel (other than the general knowledge that it lasts forever, almost was when I tried the Giant Boulder bike, but since it is an entry level MTB, even tho the ride was awesome, i guess it doesn't have v. good componetry. . . So, today is Friday and I am going to go in today or tomorrow morning I think for the Marin yay
I've a little while yet so..., but I have gotten all the majr. tips covered so far w/fantastic help here, all the threadless/fork/tyre/brake/everything youall have given is very appreciated! Guess I will take cash w/me if RdrX above is right (better than checks for some reason?)

Ok, it's getting close
Emma