For your height I would lean towards the 29er Buy at the top of your budget to start off with because those bikes inevitably have a better spec. This will save you money in the long run when you realize you need (in cycling need actually means want) a better seat, clip in pedals, a tunable front shock, more gears, hydraulic disk brakes, lighter wheels etc etc etc....
I'm so glad for them and their families that they weren't hurt If it was your bike stolen please post pics so that we can look out and hopefully catch these scumbags
I've done many many Km's on Conti GP4000S (Black Chili) and have only GOOD things to say, 1 puncture in 2 years (touches head), excellent grip, light.... a lttle bit pricey...
+1 Running Rengade's front and rear (480g if memory serves) and love them, around R500 each. Also use Kenda Small Block 8's (F+R), light (530g) with slightly more grip than the Renegade. Can't remember the price. Running both Tubeless with Stans no punctures ever, as in I've never had a flat! Oh and for a cheaper option Conti Race Kings are good for R300, around 650g. https://community.bikehub.co.za/topic/103259-lightweight-29er-tyres/page__st__20__p__1404906__fromsearch__1#entry1404906
Bikebay in JHB is also an option... http://bikebay.co.za/product_info.php?products_id=4505&cPath= http://bikebay.co.za/product_info.php?products_id=4485&cPath= Good luck!
I have the Stans Race 29er wheelset that come standard with American Classic hubs and they weight 1370g. http://www.notubes.com/ZTR-Race-29er-Wheelset-Discontinued-P660.aspx Unbelieveable wheels...
