New to mountain biking, not to riding.
I've owned BMX bikes all my life but now I'm keen on getting fit and having fun.
Pretty new to all the technical data in regards to types of gears and brakes on the bikes I'm looking at. I have a budget of about $1000 and I've narrowed it down to GIANT bikes in particularly the Talon or Alias however could be persuaded to get the $1500 Halo 2. Having minimal experience with proper mountain bike riding in the past I'm not sure which is the best suited for me and if Dual suspension is necessary?
Before anyone asks, I'm mainly going to do road riding but will eventually go into cross country and mountain trails and I want that versatility.
In summary, dual or single suspension? and Talon or Alias?
Thanks in advance!

Visit a bike store that sells Giant bikes & look over & ride a few. That would be the best advise I think anyone could give. I think Giants are about the most " bang for the buck." [ most bike for your money ]

You might want to consider giants customer service, I have spoken with giant directly in Aus, and they wont help me. Ask local riders and shops about their service over there.

sk0tt, your issues was with touch up paint and it veering to the left? Veering to the left is a cable housing thing and touch up paint can be had at a hobby shop or at a hardware store, or automotive supply store.

geeoff, if you are going to be doing mostly roadrides with it, there is no need for a full suspension bike. Among your choices, I'd go with the Talon just for the better all around parts spec.

Thanks guys,
I'm planning on going into the store to try out the SINGLE suspension bikes, either the Talon or Alias.
As for the customer service, I'm thinking that the store would be able to help me out in times of need, my boss got his Alias from the same store and has nothing bad to report about their service.
Cheers

Dannihilator, they were some of the issues, the frame was out of alignment, and the dropouts were just filed wider for a fix, the rear brake is still not working correctly.