And there you have it Doctorfrau, the eternal debate between hardtail and full suspension.

Again, read the reviews and all the product guides you can get your hands on. The manufacturers will provide particulars on each bike including the type riding it's best suited for. Geometry, components, and even size and weight. Opinions are nice, even helpful, but research will guide you to the right choice. Don't compromise on the disc brakes in whatever frame you choose. If you do ride in wet conditions (hopefully not on muddy trails as it tends to hurt them) you'll not regret having the discs. Especially if you do find yourself in the mud, V-brakes promote a cluster of yuck that you'd have to clean it out with a piece of tree. Careful, they work well. Too much front brake and you'll be doing a "supergirl."

Also, I found the Times and Egg-beaters clipless pedals shed mud and yuck much better than the SPDs.

cheers--oh I almost forgot, keep your butt up and back on the down hills.