Now I'm by no means an expert, but I just thought I would post because no one else has replied as yet.

The Boulder is an entry level bike. Now I've seen numerous specs on this bike, depending on whether you're looking at the US model, or other countries. Now the US model (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/030...06&model=11392) has 3 inches of travel, and cantilever brakes!!! Not even V-brakes! But the Aussie model (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/au/030...sp?model=10103) has 3 inches of travel and v-brakes as well as another model that has disc brakes. If I had the choice I would go for a bike that had at least v-brakes.

Now it really depends on what you want to DO with the bike.

If you're thinking of just riding around fire trails, no jumps and not very 'rocky'/technical terrain or very steep hills (decending) then this bike is probably okay. With only 3 inches of travel in the front forks however, I wouldn't be doing any drops or jumps with it, that's for sure! Again, it just depends on what you want it for.

I guess for me, if I were buying my first mtn bike, I wouldn't just think about the level of skill you have NOW, but a little ahead of yourself. You don't want a bike that you grow out of very quickly... I am of the opinion that, if you're able to, purchase a bike that you can grow into. Now that doesn't mean go buy a $5000 bike! But have a chat to the people at your LBS about where you want to go with your riding in the future, and make sure that this bike can take you there.