@Kelly I think you make some legit points here, but it all depends on what
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@HodorIsBAE is planning on doing. I prefer full suspension for the type of riding I do, and also for the issues I have with my spine/back. But I think a hardtail can be pretty capable as well - they are making hardtails now with a slacker head angle, longer travel forks, and shorter chainstays, which makes them pretty trail capable. Hodor mentioned that he would be using this bike for some trail time and some road time, which to me sounds reasonable for a hardtail. Especially if the trails are mostly singletrack without a lot of roots and rocks, etc. I agree with you that a full suspension gives you more terrain options, and that you can get more bang for your buck buying used or year-old overstock. Like Hodor said in his post, I like to buy new bikes as well - so I think that all comes down to the buyer. If $2k is his max budget though, it is hard to get into a new full suspension for that price (unless it is a new bike that is a model year or two old).
So in short - I prefer a full suspension over a hardtail, but depending on the type of riding Hodor will be doing, a hardtail may suit his needs just fine. It sounded like we was going to test the waters a bit, and he could always upgrade to a full suspension once he catches the fever
I'm not sure if any of that is coherent...I have had way too much caffeine this morning so I feel like I'm rambling hah