[torradan]

Don't know much about bikes really, but..

I got a Giant Yukon way back around 98-99 for about $400. The only maintenance that its ever needed so far was tires/tubes, and I usually get it tuned every spring.

I've beaten the crap out of it, and its never given me any grief.

I think it was a pretty good investment considering its never had any mechanical failures over all these years.

Hope that helps with your decision a bit.