purchasing a new bike

Question
Hi there, George!
I am looking to purchase a new bike for off road riding, up hill(BC~ lower mainland riding) and I have pretty much narrowed it down to two brands for what i am looking for. I need a hard tale, light weight , I'm thinking dirt jumping bike that can grow with me as i advance, also i like the large frame look, but i don't know if it will suit my build 21 female 5'5 135lbs.frame size?  So far on the sites i have been to I am thinking either a 2006 jamis komodo 1-or 3.0 , or a kona shred or stinky. the specs seem a bit better on the jamis , however, I've heard nothing but rave reviews on the well known Kona. I'm looking also in the 800$ range and was just wondering on your expert opinion on the bikes or if there is another brand you would recommend as well. also, generally how tough is it to get a last years model..so many questions.
thanks so much for your time!!
cant wait for your opinion!
cheers!

Answer
Hi there!
Do you know the parts that are on the bikes you want? If so can I have them or a link to them on the net. I don't wanna give you an opinion on only the bike frame or manufacturer.

Also how off road do you want to go? Light, moderate, extreme and will you be doing any jumps?

Just wanna gather all the info I can from you before I make a decision. I would rather ask questions and have you help me out abit before I make a crappy decision. Then you will say...geez that George SUCKED!! LOL.

Hey by the way...whats it like out there right now with the Hockey crowd? You guys rooting for the Sens over in BC? I ask cause im in Ottawa.

~ Thanks