new £800 hard tail, advice needed.

iv got £800 to spend on a new hard tail, my local bike shop ( giant dealer!! ) has recommended a giant xtc 2.5 but i also like the look of the specialized rockhopper comp 08, i mainly ride cycle paths and light xc. what do you guys think of these bikes?? are there any others worth considering?? cheers.
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More suggestions in the What Bike thread.
VOODOO CANZO
Come and see me at https://www.facebook.com/biketyke/
"It's hard not to like the XTC 2.5. It boasts a well-built frame, tidy handling, good kit and a fork that knocks spots off most of the competition at this price. But the uncompromising rigidity of the chassis is a reminder that this really is a race bike, not an all-day cruiser.
If you're happy with the single-mindedness of this approach then this is certainly a budget racer that should be on your shortlist. But if you're looking for a bike that'll also double as an all-day trail companion, be warned: this is a bike that'll kick your censored when you're tired or simply having a bad day."
maybe the rockhopper would be better suited??? :? going to have a look tommorow.
If you can arrange a test ride, you'll soon see! Even a blast round the shop car park will give you an idea of ride position, and size needed.
VOODOO CANZO
Come and see me at https://www.facebook.com/biketyke/
The older XTC isn`t quite as stiff as the current one.
For this kind of money also have a look at 2007 GT Zaskar Expert on www.paulscycles.co.uk and the Merlin Malt 2 or 4.
2010 Giant Defy Advanced
2016 Boardman Pro 29er
2016 Pinnacle Lithium 4
2017 Canondale Supersix Evo