I am pretty much in the same boat as you, just starting out. I bought myself a new bike for half the price you are looking at spending and so far so good. Here is my logic: Bought a giant Talon 29er (I know you are looking for a softail but bear with me ), great bke, low-end compenents and by all accounts a really shite fork, BUT, fact remains at this stage bike in standard form is better than I am. As I get better, will either start upgrading components or looking at "better" bikes etc, Just a thought, use it, dont use it... Good luck
