clinte – the retail price of the frame was definitely quite a lot more than £900 in 2009. I got my first one that year and paid over £900 at trade price! (including shock upgrade and front mech, post, etc).
I am certain they will sell you just the front triangle if you ask the question. No need for swingarm, shock, mounts, bearings, pivot axle, etc. so the cost will be a lot less than what you’re looking at.
Re. Mega – saw a LOT of broken Megas last season, but haven’t seen any this year, so they’ve maybe sorted the teething problems…