If your budget is strictly 1000 then go for a Merlin Malt 4 with upgraded forks.

If you can stretch to 1400 then go for an Anthem X4. I bought a frame and built it up, it is one heck of an amazing ride!

Been reading this thread and I just got a 2010 Anthem X frame on which I am transplanting some parts from a boardman.

My fork from the boardman is a Recon Uturn 80-130mm but a guy I know is getting rid of a Fox RLC 120mm so the question is, what's the consensus on running the Anthem X with a 120mm fork?

I am a small rider only 5' 4", bought the XS frame.