The bike doesn't handle a hard trail ride very well. This was my first front suspension hardtail, and it has done very well for me. Any beginners who aren't hardcore trail riders and who don't abuse the bike much, I highly recommend it. If you are hardcore, spend more money on something that takes abuse. I'm looking into it.
Breaks are very responsive as well as the shocks.
No casing around the chains, dirties pants easily. Seat is not very giving. Great bike for its price. I'm sure it was not designed to go. This bike doesn't claim to be anything more than an entry level ride for those of us who like to fool around off-road and have a great time.