Advice on which 2nd wheel I should get ... the one everyone tells me I've lost

[JohnnyReggae]

People keep telling me that I've lost a wheel ... it's crazy I know So I thought I would look for one. Seeing that I have a 29'er unicycle that I don't ride much I figured it would be a good candidate for a 2nd wheel, so I'm looking for a 2nd 29'er wheel (aka a 29'er bike). No it's not the real reason I'm looking for a 29'er over a 26, but I'll stick with that as a valid reason for now

 

Advice please on an entry level hardtail 29'er MTB. I've looked around at a couple in my price range, R5000 - R6000. Trek Marlin, Giant Talon 1 ... Had a brief chat with a dude at a local LBS yesterday, he also mentioned Silverback, Merida, and another brand or 2.

 

What is decent, value for money (without breaking budget) ...

 

Cheers, thanks