I am going through the same dilemma. I think I have decided on a new hard tail. Just not sure which one. I had thought about an El Mariachi. But then I saw Zoom's post about her fall and thinking the bike was too much for her and she is a much more experienced rider than I am! I am not so sure. I am going to test ride one anyways.
I am trying the Fatbikes this winter. We are going to rent them if we can for a day. But in all reality. I can't see me riding in the winter. If the trails are clear and it is just cold, I would ride my mountain bike. And if the trails are snow covered and it is minus 10 and windy, I have a good book I need to read! LOL
I really wanted the Kona Cinder Cone (or if I were rich next year the Explosif) because they are 27.5. But I barely make the standover on the Cone and the Explosif is higher so there is no room for error!
I have been lusting at the Surly Instigator 2.0, but I would have to make about a $300 adjustment to it and it is already pricey. I could always look at an aluminum bike but I kind of had my heart set on steel for some reason. Oh what to buy!