MTB for the misses?

[Dr_Gonzo]

I'm planning on buying my other half a MTB. I'm looking to spend up to £400 on a hard tail. She's just under 5 foot and is quite petite. I'm quite liking the GT Avalanche 3.0 http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/GT_Ladies_Avalan... Any other suggestions would be appreciated!

[Rolls]

I got the missus a specialized rockhopper? (can't remeber the model - was about £350...)
she's been quite pleased with it on the 2 occasions its been out of the garage

[anonymous-user]

given her size, and assuming she is of average proportion (length of legs/body etc) it may be worthwhile her testing a few bikes to ensure that the top tube length is suitable. most bike data is available online so find a bike, measure the top tube, if it fits buy it, but if it doesnt at least you have a benchmark.

the GT is a sound bike and anything around that price will be very similar in terms of spec. as a general rule i would avoid anything with suntour forks as i think they are the lowest quality, if this means looking at a bike with better forks but running V-brakes (albeit very unlikely) then go for the forks. cheap forks are just awful to ride on...

[ratbane]

Bought my missus a Claude Butler Valetta. About £350. Nice bike.