After borrowing bikes all summer it is finally time to buy my first MTB. I have read the FAQs and narrowed my choice down to three bikes. They all feel good to me and suit the riding I do which is mostly bike path/trail and a little asphalt. I feel like more road is in my future but I like the trails for the fun factor.

My candidates are:

Trek 4300 (everybody picks a Trek, I know)
Kona Fire Mountain or Lanai
Haro Escape or Escape Sport

These are entry level bikes I realize and I know their components are pretty basic but probably all I need for a couple of years. Any thoughts or opinions from the forum will be most apopreciated as I would like to buy myself a birthday present this month :-)

Thanks and Peace to all...