Thanks all for the info! I did check out the discussion in the MTBR women's lounge which gave me some good info.

Amanda, thanks for the great info! How is the 29er different in descending? more unstable?? I will check out the Specialized. I know my LBS has the TREK WSD 29er X-Caliber but not sure if I should go WSD or unisex. My other 2 mountain bikes and road bike are WSD and I seem to have good luck and fits with those. and 24 pounds for a bike would be nice!