Down to two MTB's......advice?

[DoubleU]

So after a bit of searching, I've narrowed my selection to two hardtails....

Rockrider 8.1 (£550)
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/rockrider-81-2012-mount...

Cube Analog 26 (£575 - £589)
http://www.hargrovescycles.co.uk/products.asp?part...

The Cube is a little more expensive (+£30). However the Rockrider has got glowing reviews.

Bit of background, I haven't done MTB for nearly 10 years so its all kind of new to me again. Obviously I've been abiding to the basics of ensuring the bike has hydro forks etc.

Is the Cube worth the extra £30?

Budget is a max £600.

[P-Jay]

I'd go with the Rock rider, the fork will dominate the way the bike feels at this level and a Air Sprung Recon is better than a coil sprung XC, the rest is as much of a muchness.

[DMN]

Ride both, go with the one that feels right.

Edit: That said, I'd also go with the rock rider. The fork will be better in the long term, the rest of the components can be up-graded as they break.

Edited by DMN on Tuesday 30th July 16:12

Edited by DMN on Tuesday 30th July 16:12

[Vladimir]

The Rockrider has a great spec for the money but the Cube has a few nice touches too.

I find Cubes tend to be good VFM but have strange cost cutting areas; a mates Ltd Pro has full XT except for a naff crankset and the wheels are dreadful Alex ones.


A tricky one but I'd err towards the RR.

Edited by Vladimir on Tuesday 30th July 16:15

[DoubleU]

Well went to Decathlon after work. I've put my name down on a Rockrider 8.1

Done a few laps round the shop, I was amazed at how light the thing was! My last bike was a boat anchor in comparison. A mate who was with me also put his name down for one as well. The lads working there tonight must be pleased!

Now I need to sit down and work out what kit I need to get....I still have my camelpack and padded shorts which is a saving grace!

Going to christen them at Delamere forest on Saturday