Wants to start and needs a weapon to ride

woodyonthebeach

Right I want to start with a bit of XC racing. I do a few road races already but want to take certain things further.

What I need is some help with choosing a weapon for the cause I have whittled it down to 2 bikes and just need a nudge in the right direction as to which one I should go for

1. Epic Expert Carbon
http://www.specialized.com/gb/en/bc/SBC ... 180&eid=99

2. Focus First Expert
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Focus ... 360037547/

Also I need to find a club/private team I can do some training with. I live in Marlow Buckinghamshire but dont drive (spend to much money on bikes) so ideally it would have to be close but I will ride up to 25 miles to meet for rides.

thanks in advanced for any information or advice

woody