All Users\Start Menu slow to open

I have just re-installed Windows XP Pro and all the associated updates on my PC (I accidently erased my sons previous install and I am in the dog house). I have also cleaned up the user associated start menus by moving the short cuts to the user accounts I want them to reside in. I now notice a 5 second delay when I try to select the All Users\start menu folder from within My Computer (i.e., selecting My Computer, then C:, then Documents and Settings, then All Users, then Start Menu). If I go to it by right clicking the Start menu button on the lower left corner of the screen it is instantaneous. I also get the delay when I use the back arrow key to come out of the Start
Menu. This phenomena does not happen with any other folder (even other user's start menu folders).

System stuff:
1 G memory
32 bit AMD processor (not at home and do not remember the name or speed - 3 years old)
Windows XP pro with SP2 and all windows recommended updates
No virus protection installed yet but have only visited Windows Update site

Any ideas?

thanks
Mike

 

More Information

I have now added Windows OneCare virus protection and ran a tuneup (defrag, scan, etc.). Still no improvement when accessing ...All Users\Start Menu from My Computer. I have only been using the Adminstrator account and have been reluctant to add any other user accounts until I figure this out.

I have also found that I can recreate the issue if I use explore (as apposed to My Computer) as long as I select within the right side (the file/folder view, name?). If I use the left/tree side, I have no problem. I have also found that when the 5-10 seconds of delay occurs the disk is thrashing.

Hope this helps.