[darkpuppet]

That's not a bad bike... Specialized make some great gear, and the tires on that bike are pretty decent for all-round toronto riding -- though, they'll get a bit slippery when the trails get muddy).

I don't think you could go wrong with that bike per se, but I think you could get a Kona Blast, which comes with some better components (fork and brakes) for only a few bucks more.

I'm not sure what price your local bike shop gave you, but a quick search finds the specialized for about $699 and the Kona Blast for about $899, which is higher up in your price range.

However, you could probably talk the bike shop down another hundred off the blast (dealer cost for the blast is about $600 by my estimates). And you get better brakes, and a way better fork.

While the Specialized has on OK fork, and slightly better componentry, I would recommend getting the upgraded fork and brakes on the Kona.

In the end, it comes down to what you're willing to live with. You can get a LOT of bike for about a grand if you stick with a hardtail...

My best value pick would be the Kona Blast, but I'm sure you'd be happy with the Specialized if that's what you choose.