Check out Stanton bikes switchback 27, salsa, or surly, Niner ROS 9 is S great option in that price range also. I would do a hardtail 29 if it’s for racing, a 27 if it’s for play. Go with steel for the frame, shimano xt brakes and drivetrain or slr if you need cheaper, check out the fox rhythm or float fork, stans wheels, schwalbe tires, chromag components.