Cannondale or Whyte?

[The Surveyor]

I'm looking to replace my aged and tired Orange C-16 with a new 2013 hardtail. I've narrowed the choice down to either a Cannondale Trail sl 2 or a Whyte 805. Both the same price and both feel very comfortable, similar spec too, but has anybody got any reviews of either?

Cheers

Paul

[Gizmoish]

Someone picked up an SL2 recently I think... skim back a few pages in the 'show off your bike' thread?

[BadgerBenji]

The Trail range is very well specced this year. Sold several, some have bought because of the spec and some because it's a Cannondale. It's one thing Cannondale have plenty of experience in, is Aluminium.

[The Surveyor]

Thanks guys, I do like the Cannondale & the spec is excellent, but something is just drawing me towards the Whyte... It just felt a little more special.

Paul

[rhinochopig]

I have a Mk 1 whyte 46 and a 'Dale tandem MTB. The craftsmanship and paintwork on the dale is far far better than the Whyte. In fact the paint on that is dire, and the construction is a little flimsy too.

My vote would be the 'Dale on build quality - BUT Whyte may have upped their game in the intervening years.