New Full Suss £1400 limit

OwenCB

Hi, I've been shopping around for a new full suss bike as I've a few back problems and I'm looking for a comfier ride.
My local bike shops stock, Giant, Marin, Specialized, Trek and Cube of which I can test ride any of the latter four manufacturers bikes for a small charge.
I've a maximum limit of £1400 and if I can would like to get something competent for less if possible. I know my options will be limited in the Marin range and I really like the look of the Cube Stereo 18, but was hoping some more experienced heads may be able to offer some further advice.
I mainly ride cross country, and stuff like the North Face Trail at Grizedale but nothing too heavy and I would like something not too heavy as I'm already 18 stone and don't like humping my bulk up hillsides let alone a tank of a bike!

Any advice would be massively appreciated

Thanks

Owen

Gaffyr

Specialized Stumpjumper FSR COMP
If you can haggle a bit or get last years model which is fine

Andy B

Commencal Meta 5.5.3, £1300, 140mm travel front & rear, 31lbs in weight, great bike

Larok

http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/?fn=produ ... goryId=129

deal of the day, bit of a bargain!

OwenCB

Sorry guys I was a bit vague with my original question I was hoping for advice within the model ranges of the bikes available to me as I want to try and support my LBS as they've been brilliant with me since I took up cycling and want to give something back.
I do like the Commencals but Merlin are a little too far out of town for me

clarkson

id say go for specialized, ether the stumpy, or the pitch comp/pro.

Ciaran500

Am in a similar price range to you and the shortlist I came up with was:

Trek Fuel EX7
Specialized Stumpjumper Comp
Giant Trance X1 (£1500 but some great spec)
Meta 5.5.2 (£1750 but haven't heard great things about the fork on the 5.5.3)