Reply To: Which bike?

[Fatbike Joe]

Which Bike,

I would refrain from any of those you listed, as none of them are a true mtn bike. And all three have very cheap components.
A 1×11 set up is much easier to use, and you still will get the same ratio as a 2x

1000$ will get you the Salsa Timberjack 29r NX1

1400$ will get you the Salsa Timberjack 27.5plus GX1
Here is the website
http://salsacycles.com/bikes/timberjack
You may also wanna check out http://www.specialized.com

Also your LBS may have a daily rental program. This will give you some
options as to what kind of bike you may want.
Good luck with your search.
Fatbike Joe