Merida Bikes or other option ~ Budget about 500 - 650

[G0ldfysh]

LBS that I bought my MTB from last year ago is stocking these they look good and the guys in the shop seemed pretty keen. They also have a Felt from last year, same budget

Anyone have any experience on these and any comments or alternative recommendations. I have looked at the boardman option but of course that involves a purchase from Halfords and the LBS is much more trustworthy on the support and initial set up

Usage for the bike is to be mainly commuting 13 - 15 miles to work and back, but rather than a MTB on slicks sooner something with taller gears to stop me running out of gears to push.