honestly i would also take a look at a gary fisher tassajara disc or hoo koo e koo (similar to the trek 6500 and 6700 respectivey) if you local bike shop is also i fisher dealer. The 6700 is a nice bike, from what you stated in your post that you are just now a weekend rider looking to maybe do some more riding in the future the 6700disc would be a good bike. With that being said if you are looking to start racing then the 8000 may be better suited for you. the 8000 will be a ligher bike with better performing components than a 6700, although that is not to say the 6700 is not a good bike. My advise would be to see if you local bike shop (LBS) has either to test ride and see what you like best. If there are any more details about your riding style that you would like to share that would make helping you eaiser.
Welcome to the board, i was not trying to come off a total jerk although it looks like i may have. I hope this helps put me in better favor.