MTB hardtail advice...?

Yes the suntour fork is entry level but keeping in mind that the same company that makes that Suntour fork also makes the Marzochii 888 and many other high end forks too and they have been making them since 89' so to say that they are junk....well yes to a degree but the parts are available and the odds that you will get one that will be a lemon are not too good. aside from that this bike is entirely entry level and will work fine for your intended use. As far as size i would suggest at least a 17.5" or 18" and at the very least a 17" but no smaller or bigger whatsoever. Trek 3700 or 3800 would be a decent alternative in your price range more than likely.