hey guys, new to the mountain forum, frequent road and commuting.

I'm in the market for a SS 29er. I've looked at the Nashbar one, it looks decent.

Nashbar: https://www.nashbar.com/bikes/ProductDisplay?storeId=10053&langId=-1&catalogId=10052&productId=502354&cm_mmc=$(referrer)$-_-Bicycles-_-Nashbar-_-NB-SSMBD&CSE=GooglePS&mr:trackingCode=7DCBFC0F-F9E1-DE11-974B-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA

Bike Direct (sorry I'm using internet sources, but these seem like good prices) has one: https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/se/stout.htm
--> I could probably order this from my LBS, they stock SE.

also, the Redline Monocog. It's not that expensive (msrp $419) and I could probably get it from a LBS nearby.

I'm leaning towards the Redline, just because it seems to be a nice basic frame. I'll probably get some Shimano SPD shoes/pedals right away, and see what I want to upgrade after that.

any other bikes I should be looking at? I'd like to keep it under $500 if possible. I want this as a trail bike, as well as an around town ride.

happy riding!

ss 29ers are a stupid fad.

Its going to be tough to beat the redline if you are price sensitive. I'd rather go with the redline from the LBS than bikesdirect internet style.

I'd go with the redline.

agreed.....plus you LBS backing.

so the Redline is good, what about the SE Stout? I can get that from my LBS, since they sell SE.

I definitely want to support an LBS, if possible.

Just my $.02, but if possible, try and borrow one from a buddy and ride your normal ride. I went through the same process you're going through and ended up hating the bike. It did nothing well. The gearing was too low for flat/downhill (end up coasting a lot) and too high for tough climbs (end up hiking a lot).
I came away from it thinking - "this is really stupid".
Again, just my humble opinion.

What you really want is a full suspension, carbon frame with 26" wheels and a 27 speed drive train.

are you a politician?

Define "a".