Thing is, we sell marins in our shop, and they are bloody expensive for what they are. There isnt anything special about them, yet they charge quite a bit more than the other leading brands (Trek, Specialized) for less bike. Kona are in the same boat. We have now stopped being a Kona dealer as the units where not selling simply becuase they are very underspecced for what they are, although the frames are very good. I would personally stick to a big manufacturer, and get more for your money. Giant bikes are very good at the moment and (god, cant believe im gunna say this) DIAMOND BACK have just released a new line of bikes which actually seem ok for the money. If you need any info/brochures, i'll stick some on the post for ya

How much do you wanna spend, and what are you going to be using it for?

Cheers
Mike