Best all-around hardtail frame?
 

After much soul-searching, I decided that I don't need a 1000+ dollar FS frame, nor do I want to put a bunch of burly components on the decidedly un-burly F300 frame I have lying around. I am looking for a solid hardtail with all-around geometry...it has to climb well, descend well, look good, and not totally break the bank (<600). I'll most likely be running a 5 inch fork and a standard 44/32/22 triple.

I was previously set on a Banshee Chaparral, but once I realized that I'd be climbing a lot and riding a bit on the road to get to the trails, it didn't seem too smart.

A shop near me suggested, if I was still interested in Banshee, to build up a Morphine with an XT build kit...I'm not good enough to need that hardcore of a frame, but with XT stuff and reasonable wheels/fork it seems like it would be light enough and look seriously cool to boot...I'm about 215, so under 35 pounds is fine for the bike...

Anybody have any hardtail experiences that would totally change my mind? Ridden a frame that I need to know about?

Best all around I would say is the Jackel. Thoughs things can take a major beating, but they quite abit of cash. The Morphine is a great bike aswell. A friend of mine had it for while and said that the geo was perfect.

Banshee Viento.

and the old standby, the SC Chameleon.

How is the Jackal a good 'all round' bike? It's a hardcore dirt jumper! You would be dead if you tried to do long XC rides or any uphills...

+1 for the Chameleon

not quite on the beaten path
 

but check out transition's vagrant hardtail
pretty burly, more free-ride type oriented, but they tout it like it's not the slowest thing up the mountain, either.

www.transitionbikes.com

^+1

+2^

a) banshee morphine
or
b) Norco Torrent

I mostly say the Jackel becuase it is a very strong frame. Plus if you tried to DJ on a XC that isn't going to come out very well. So it might be best to get Freeride/Dirtjump if you are looking for the best all around. And the Chameleon is another very good choice. Or if you had the money, you go with a Blur 4X.

Wow, the Vagrant looks really nice!

bah to all of those. Surly Instigator :-D

+1 also=)

If I ever get a dirt jump bike, I want this LINKY

I heard that yeti makes a good frame...and doesnt trek give you a lifetime warranty?