If you're looking for a good value for price regarding an entry level cross country hardtail, then the K2 Zed 3.0 is an excellent choice. I've owned a 2006 Zed 3.0 for 4 years and I've taken it on technical singletrack and raced it. It's a good platform to build on, is solidly built, and has a replaceable derailleur hanger. The 2006 came with a Rock Shox J1, which does not have lockout, so if you're riding to the trailhead there can be a bit of bob, but not a major concern. The drivetrain is full Shimano Deore, and I've found it to be solid and reliable on shifts, even under load. The Tektro IO brakes aren't Avid BB7 MTB Mechanical Bicycle Disc Brake (160mm, Graphite, Front or Rear), but they have sufficient stopping power. The Alex rims are serviceable and fairly sturdy (unless you taco one on an exposed root ball, like I did),... Read more