Right bike for mtn biking and one TransAm trip?

[TwoWheeledExplorer]

My mistake; I meant the Beckman Great Divide Tour, not the Bruce Gordon. Supposed to be a great bike, built for the Great Divide specifically, but you have to call Bob by phone to get any serious info. (http://www.coinet.com/~beckman/sakkit26.html)

The Surly LHT (Long Haul Trucker) is a frame capable of using 29 inch MTB tires/wheels. (http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html)

The REI/Novara Safari appears to be out of production. I don't know what to tell you, or me, because I was seriously considering one. I sent REI an inquiry, and should hear back by Monday evening.

Ride safe,
Hans

www.trailpatrol.org

[TwoWheeledExplorer]

REI got back to me yesterday. They have sold out of Novara Safaris at this time and do not expect any more until August.

Grrrr.
Hans

www.trailpatrol.org

[matthuffman]

OK, so I've got it somewhat narrowed down in terms of what I want to buy.  I'm looking at either the Trek 4900 or the Specialized Rock Hopper Comp and then putting road tires on them once I start my trip.  But it looks like for the price I'll be paying, I'll either be able to get disc brakes (on the Trek) or shock lockout (on the Specialized--a function that lets you turn off the shocks basically so they don't rock during road riding.).  

Given the choice, which one would you opt for?  If I want to get both, I have to go up to around 800 bucks, whereas these I could probably get for around 600.