My favorite bikes were Kona's. I've tried a few brands, and kept going back to them. Back when I rode, I did cross country and downhill. Nothing like going down a ski hill in the summer!

They weren't 'that' pricy at the time and the frames were built like tanks even though I had the lightess frame I could get (with the cash at the time). If you do get into this sport, be prepared to change out components often. If your using it for an every day rider then you don't need to worry. But like everything in life, if you abuse it often enough - you have to replace it.

Kris