£1k Full Suss Trail/XC Bike

commandolomo

Oh yes, the eternal question! Having reignited my interest in mountain biking after a couple of years (and the proud owner of both a Rufftrax and Hardrock, both of which survided Snowdon!), I am taking advantage of a 'cycle to work' scheme to get my mitts on a full suss £1k bike...

After doing my research, I have been drawn to a choice of 3 2008 models -

Saracen Ariel 2 - £1000
Giant Trance 3 - £999
Trek Fuel Ex 5.5 - £900

As I am using a cycle to work vocuher, so I can only get new models at full RRP. Having read the review in this month's WMB on the Trance, my mind is nearly made up...however I am open to any compelling reason why I should reconsider!

From a monetary point of view, are the Ariel 2 and Trance 3 worth an extra £100 over the Trek? if not, that money could be spend on a good lock and light set...

I would really value your opinions.

Cheers

FSR_XC

I'd add the Spez XC to that list.

zero303

I've gone for the Spesh Myka Expert for my wife (female equiv of the above) lovely, lovely bike - as she's gone for the S (about 15.5") it's bloody light as well considering the price!

Chaka Ping

I think you've already made the right decision, regarding the Trance.

I must be honest and say I haven't ridden one, but the suspension system is excellent and I have only heard good things about them. And Giant's spec-for-money is amazing this year.

I'm almost tempted to use my new voucher to buy one!

papasmurf.

apart from the dart fork this is a cracker http://www.realcycles.com/products.php?plid=m1b0s1p1394

littleandy0410

another vote for the Giant here - had a 2006 model until a few weeks ago, when some thieving toerag decided they wanted it.

Another possibility is this:http://wiggle.co.uk/ProductDetail.aspx?Cat=cycle&ProdID=5360032349&N=Focus%20Super%20Bud%202008

Oh, to replace the Trance I had, I'm getting the Spesh FSR xc Expert. Haven't got it yet, so can't comment on it yet!!

commandolomo

Thanks for the advice y'all, seems like Giant are gonna my grand!

Once I've got it and been able to take her out I'll be sure to let you know how it went....

Cheers

joed05

another vote for the giant; i rode a 2007 trance 3 at wentwood about half a year ago, i have to say they are great, the linkage and the feel of the rear sus is really sorted and has got a planted reassured feel, i bet the 2008 one is even better.