hardtail mountain bike recommendations?

heavymental

I'm looking for a new hardtail mountain bike to use on cross country trails and also on the road. I'm looking to spend around £800 and will probably go for a men's bike rather than a woman's specific. I'm 5'3.
Can anyone suggest any suitable bikes? I have been looking at the Genesis Core range but not sure if the smallest frame they make (16") will be too big?
Thanks

heavymental

Come on ladies! No ideas? What do you ride?

sparrowlegs78

I can't say on small frames as I'm stuck on a 19" frame Merlin Malt 2.....it's a belting bike for it's size..light and nimble too
Caz xx

kathg

I don't have a hardtail but am considering getting one. I'm 5 4" and ride a 16" Orange 5 at the mo which I totally love but am finding a bit heavy going on rides with looong climbs! I've heard that Ghost make brilliant hardtails with really high level of kit for the price so I'll be checking these out as soon as I have some more spare cash! Let us know what you manage to demo ride/try out and what you think.

Good luck.

Kathg x