I currently own a 26" moutain bike and thinking of buying a 24" bike. My thinking is that a 24" will be a little more nimble on the trail and easier to jump logs, rocks, and the like. I'm also looking for duel suspension. What do you think? What are the advantages/disadvantages of a 24" vs. 26"? I also weight 200 lbs. and 5'8".

I was going to suggest a 24" BMX cruiser til you mentioned dual suspension. I weigh in at 215 at 5'11''. I have an older BMX cruiser for fun. I was able to fit some 24X2.3's on it, and it soaks up bumps a lot better than the smaller stuff I've had on it. For riding the trails, its a whole different world, from lines to attacking stuff.

The nimblness achieved in getting over logs on a 24" bike is removed by the 24
wheels themselves. There is a balance between the two and thats you decision. 5'8 is traditionally pretty tall. I know 2 FULL time 24" riders. One dh and one trail and both ride what they can. However both are 5'4, ex bmx riders, SUPER strong and very skilled. I could not and would not consider using a 24" bike on a trail. Thats getting too small and the wheels don't facilitate the type of trail/dh riding I enjoy These guys also ride some of the most technical trails in bc (north shore and pemby) and do quite well. Even then, one of them is switching to a dually 26"...simple reason, its faster in the rough stuff.

I also believe that the 24 bikes Le Dude is a 24" duallie and a small buillit suits 24" wheels nicely. You do have options.