So, I wanna buy a bike.



I've started my search but haven't finished it, but wanted some advice on what I've seen so far.

This will be my first serious bike. But I've been dying to get into it, just have been too poor as a student. But I graduated, and got a job, and now it's time!

Two bikes I like so far in my search:
http://www.devinci.com/11013_an.html ($1499 last year's stock at my LBS)
and
http://www.konabikes.co.uk/2k5bikes/2k5_kikapu_dlx.php ($900 used, but in great shape)

I'm not entirely sure what XC and Trail mean in terms of actual terrain, but I'll be riding trails, twisty windy, in the forest, sometimes flat, sometimes rocks and roots. Sometimes up sometimes down.

Also, I'm a chick, not sure if that matters with respect to bike advice.

Thanks guys!