another what bike thread...

[ALfooy]

You guys are probably getting sick and tired of these, but here goes...

I've recently just got back into riding after an absence of around 2 years. i wasn't a serious rider per say but my last bike, which i've still got, a Saracen Rufftrax was a great bike, served me well and lasted me a good 3 years pretty much trouble free apart the usual failing on me after some hard use.

now i'm looking for its replacement.

i'm budgeting from anything from £400 - £800 and don't really want to spend more than that if i can help it, i am looking more toward £800 more than before mind

I've pretty much 'narrowed' it down to the Orange G2, Specialized Rockhopper and Hardrock pro Disc and Cannondale Trail SL3 and 4.
I've also noticed the Cube Acid and Attention recently so i've got me a bit of a list to go through.

I'm more keen than any on the G2 and Rockhopper as i've read good things on both and think when i've finished uni for the year i'm going to see if i can get a test ride on each, but anyone who can tell me if i am going for good choices or any advice at all would be great.

cheers, Alex

[subsea99]

hows about these ?

http://www.canyon.com/_en/mountainbikes/bike.html?...

or little bit extra and get this

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/CBOOWHIPSS/on-one-carb...

[Jimbo.]

Whichever fits best! bikes can be longer or shorter for the same stated frame size. There is a degree of adjustability (stem length/rise, saddle position etc) but that's more expense AND if you're having to make big adjustments, or maxing things out so much a new part is required, then IMO there's something amiss.

Spec-wise they're all similar, although I suspect (having not checked the precise specs) offerings from the bigger brands will offer marginally better VFM.

FWIW I had an '07 Rockhopper Disc. 'twas good, although orientated more towards the long, stretched out, big-ring pushing XC type. I'd have no qualms about buying another.