When I was looking around for an XC/trail bike a little over a month ago, the local shop had The 08 Dakota Elite on clearance sale for about 1500, and the comp for 800. The comp, even when not on sale, sells for less than 1500. I took one out for a test ride. It was a nice bike, very fast, but my dainty little toosh has grown too accustomed full suspension, and I ended up with a Dakar. From what I have seen, Jamis seems to offer the best bang for the buck with similar bikes from Giant or Specialized or the other big names selling for quit a bit more.