New hardtail - any suggestions?

I just bought a Specialized Hardrock Pro. It is a hardtail with Marzochi Forks (100mm travel) and mechanical disc brakes. MSRP is $610 US bucks

Is it safe to assume US dollars?

Shimano MTB component group sets in decreasing spec are:

XTR
XT
LX
Deore
(I forget the exact order of the lower end, but at this price bracket you shouldn't see them anyway)

For your price level you'd be looking at either Deore or a Deore/LX mix (assuming a hardtail.)

I can't help much with suspension forks, sorry -- though buying a full suspension bike at this price level will likely mean significant compromises in component spec elsewhere (drivetrain/brakes/etc.)

Brakes; stock you are most likely going to be looking at good V-brakes or decent mechanical discs, which at this stage of development are quite good. My last MTB had them, and I had no complaints. (The next level up are hydraulic disc brakes.)

A few points to make is that local bike stores will likely have their prices set somewhat below manufacturer RRP .. and now is a good time to buy in terms of sales and discounts, as manufacturers are bringing out the 2004 models; store owners are keen to sell their 2003 stock to make way for them.

Cove Handjob or Salsa CroMo fraame with Deore components should get you within your budget; shop the internet sites for parts...nothing wrong with left over NOS 8 speed stuff from Shimano.

You have gotten some good advice so far. At a pricepoint of $600 to $800 I would stick to hardtails, if you buy new. Just like Rek said, if you go to a full suspension bike the componentry is going to REALLY suffer. The frame and suspension design will be solid and well thought out, but they have to save money somewhere since there are added manufacturing costs and additional components for a full suspension bike. At $700 you could get a good hardtail with mechanical discs that will take you all over the mountains. Try to stay away from Hayes mechanical discs. They make outstanding hydros, but their mechanicals are far behind Avid's performance and a little less desireable than Shimano's mechanicals. Aim for an LX drivetrain with some form of discs. If you are patient you could find a deal with an XT mix of components. You could get SRAM 7.0 at this pricepoint as well. If you like the gripshift idea (some don't like them, I love them); that is just a preferene thing though. Have fun shopping and please check out the online shops for deals. Try to get forks with some form of external damping and adjustments. You should have good luck finding Manitous on several models that would be good for you. Marzocchi is a good brand as well.

K.