I checked the reviews for Ibex and they are outstanding for a good quality "for-the-price" bike. I am looking to keep my price under $800 and Ibex website has the alpine 550 for $499. My lbs has some older model rockhoppers for between $450 and $800. I am awfully tempted to go blindly with the Ibex. Has anyone any experience with this bike?

Appreciate your recommendations, oh wise ones!