Can't make my mind up???

photogod
photogod Posts: 9
edited March 2010 in MTB beginners
I am new to all this, so my knowledge is very limited only based on what I have read on the net over the last couple of weeks.
I have decided to purchase a Mountain Bike through the ride to work scheme & have narrowed it down to two bikes but I am totally open to other recommendations. The two bikes are both £999, one is a Cannondale F3 2009 with Rockshock forks (on sale) & the other is a Trek 6500.
I have heard a couple of negative stories regarding Cannondale bikes & the after sales service, but I'm not one to believe everything I read on the net.
I will be riding on Canal/Road & will eventually do more off road, so I think these choices should be a safe bet?
Cheers
Dave