Maximum £850 budget - what is the best hardtail?

Port_Meadow

Having cocked up on my bike to work voucher I've £850 to spend on a hardtail - must be manufacturers RRP.

I've found two that look promising - which is the better bike?

Scaracen Zen 2
Orange P7 S

I've discounted the Trek 6700 on the basis of a review, but I'm happy to read further opinion.

Thanks
A.

The Spiderman

If you are looking for tough bikes,that you can throw around,these 2 are good ones to consider.The price you pay,is in the weight,so if your inclinations are more to xc riding,you may want to reconsider.

Of these 2 I reckon the Zen is better vfm.

Matt-B

I asked a similar question recently:

http://www.bikeradar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12568771

I plumped for the P7 S - seems to garner good reviews and has a reputation for being bomb-proof, seemed to suit my needs. But I haven't actually ridden it yet (it's on order....) So give me a week and I'll let you know how it is!

passout

P7 is nice but too heavy. The Zen would be my choice of the 2 - looks like a nice bike and better value. Another possiblity are the Ridgeback Genesis bikes - cracking value and designed for UK conditions like your other two choices. I'm sure that there's one around £800 - you have the choice of alu or steel too.

passout

P7 is nice but too heavy. The Zen would be my choice of the 2 - looks like a nice bike and better value. Another possiblity are the Ridgeback Genesis bikes - cracking value and designed for UK conditions like your other two choices. I'm sure that there's one around £800 - you have the choice of alu or steel too.

hoathy

How about a Marin B-17, wouldn't use all your budget either, a rock ridge would be good if you could get on at a knocked down price.

hoathy

sorry, just read the thing about the manufacturers retail. take back the thing about the rocky ridge.