two years ago, after much research, i got a 'gary fisher' 'marlin'.

i found that fisher had the highest quality add-ons (brakes, front-only suspension, derailleur) for the lowest price - as a package. not sure if true today.

only change i'd make is get a smaller frame - i'm on the borderline and chose the larger frame.

search the forums here and you'll find a thread that contains what the different members carry. different requirements for different users.

in the mountains i carry my typical day backpack. the bike carries extra water, a universal bike tool kit - kind of like a leatherman for bikes - tire patches called 'scabs', and a spare inner tube - easier to change out the tube in the field and then repair the bad tube at home. the scabs cover the lightning strike in the same place twice potential.

around town, same backpack but less water.

good luck!