Help me find a new mountain bike for the lad in the Sales

[GuinnessMK]

It's my son's 12th birthday soon. He's a keen mountain biker, but also rides to school and back every day. We've been round the local shops and have a bit of a short list.

His / my wish list is, hard tail, suspension forks (preferably with damping), hydraulic disc brakes, aluminium frame. Frame size about 14-16". We've also established that while a 29r looks good, he's just too small at the minute. No doubt he'll grow into it, but it's a bike to use now, not in a years time.

Giant Revel 1 http://www.ashcycles.com/site/giant-revel-1-2012-1...

Felt Q620 http://www.wiggle.co.uk/felt-q620-2012/

His favourite is the Carrera Vulcan from Halfords, http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...

My own preference is for the Specialized Hardrock Pro Disc, but that is because I had a Stumpjumper Pro and a Hardrock.

So, any recommendations, or has anyone spotted any great deals out there in the sales??

[RAClNG SNAKE]

VooDoo HooDoo seems to have rave reviews in under £500 and under £1000 categories due to its spec. The Specialized caught my eye too but appears to be let down by poor forks (XCT only)

Edited by RAClNG SNAKE on Saturday 29th December 11:43

[duff]

Loads to choose from although mail order only, just put your max budget in the filter:

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/offers.php?cat=1

20% off all bikes excl Specialized:

http://www.dalescycles.com/

Edited by duff on Saturday 29th December 11:42

[P K Wright]

I'd go for the Felt every time, I've had a Q520 for a few years now and have loved it.

[Gizmoish]

Paulscycles as noted or Triton, JEJames, Tredz...

The Carrera is almost certainly as good though. Halfords build may be patchy but the spec is good. Makes sure whatever he gets the forks have lockout.

[GuinnessMK]

Thanks guys.

He's decided on the Carrera. Ordered online for home delivery, so I can build it up myself. (I've been on the school / county cyclocross team, worked in a bike shop for a few years, been a courier, so I hope I know what I'm doing!).