For 2 grand you can get alot of bike, see here for my suggestion:
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Pro…
Now seriously look at the specs on this bike and then look at the specs on this one too:
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Pro… and compare these to your Trek or Spec. Not to mention there is a 20% off deal coming up this weekend too and you can also get an additional 10% back (of your total purchase) if you sign up as a Team Performance member too. No one else gives you that! Really good bikes too! Another point to make is this: At any price point (such as $2000) nearly all makes and models are the "best" for what you get. The only differences are, Name and components. A 2k GT for instance may have a Rock Shox fork on it and a Stumpjumper may have a Specialized fork on it and both will have all Shimano SLX components, so what do you want on the side of your fork? Dont beat yourself up on this one, go for the best bang for your buck, you WILL get a decent bike no matter at that price point.