So I’m thinking of adding to my repertoire and bike stable and could use the help of the forum. I’ve been interested in doing more off-road riding lately (have been riding cyclocross bike on a few easy trails), and think I'm ready to take the plunge and buy an MTB.

My idea of a fun time will be the “flowy mostly smooth singletrack” variety. Rock gardens and drops not so much - my joints hurt just saying it. Can’t imagine that I’d ever race. I want to increase my bike handling skills, do more group riding and have more variety in my rides, especially in the cooler months. There are fantastic beginner-intermediate trails (single track and jeep road type) within an easy ride from my home.

I’m tall (5’10”) but have very long legs/short torso, so geometry WILL be an issue. But before I deal with that, wondering what you all think about an appropriate first bike? My budget says: mid-range hard tail, entry-level dual, or hard tail 29er. Test riding tells me little because suspension is completely new to me and riding down the street from a shop hardly foreshadows how I’ll feel on a trail.

I’m philosophically leaning towards a 29er but not sure I’ll be able to pull off the reach (not many WSD choices). I very much like the idea of the better components and lighter weight I’ll get in a hard tail. I know a lot of people say when learning a hard tail will teach me better skills. Others say if you can afford a dualie you should start there for more overall fun & comfort...What do YOU say, and why??? Thanks in advance!