New full suss: long or short?

ukmtbdude

Hi all. I am new to MTBing and need advice on a full sus ride. I presently have a Trek hardtail but wish to upgrade for those mile eating epics.
My conundrum is do I go for a 100mm set up or a 120mm set up.
The sort of riding I do is mostly long day single track. I am going to test a Giant Anthem, Trek Top Fuel and Fuel Ex, but can also test a Ghost Actinum RT.
Any thoughts on my requirements. As with everyone i like the Canyon Nerves but has reservations about buying dierectly.
Any help is appreciated.

Cogsy1976

I would go for the Giant Trance think it won MBR bike of the year and thats only 100mm and approx £1k cant go wrong!

386ka

Giant Trance X is 120, The Anthem X is 100 mm of travel. You should choose wether you like fast, light, XC bike, or a bike with more relaxed geometry, great for trail riding or pushing downhill?

ukmtbdude

I tested a trek Fuel Ex and was not too sure about the riding position. It felt really upright and I am used to an xc position with my Trek hardtail, however I did like the Top fuel. Felt natural and when riding it ate up the bumps and was a real burner. I also tested a Ghost AMR and like the Fuel Ex was not right but I did like the RT from Ghost.
So I am stuck between a Top Fuel 8 fwith a fox fork for £1799 or the RT 7500 for £1839 with full XT and Reba fork.

swagger

Hi mate,

I ride a tarted top fuel 8 and i cant fault it.
before i went for it i tried a fuel ex, mondraker factor and an anthem.
i to didnt like the position on the fuel and i still dont no..... i say that and i now work for a trek dealer!!!

The factor was ok as was the anthem. even tho the anthem gets better reviews i still prefer the top fuel.

its quick, up hill and down. once you get the suspension dialled it just has so much traction.
on the way down its very capable considering its only 100mm of travel, as long as you pick your line itll handle most things considerabley well.

you can always upgrade over time as you want or they wear out.

i hasten to add i didnt work in a bike shop at the time of testing, so its unbiased!!!!

if your not sure then try and demo them again if you can, dont rush into it as your shelling out a decent amount of cash.

atb,
Joe

Eranu

I'd also try the Trance X. Solid performer. I too didn't like the Trek EX at all just wasn't right for me.

Best advice is to try quite a few bikes before you buy.

rockmonkeysc

I had a Trance X. Really great bike, I just found I was pushing mine a bit too hard on descents but for what you describe it's perfect. Get a test ride

Pudseyp

The top Fuel is more racy the EX is more of an allround trail bike, for general riding I would have a 120mm as they are slightly more versatile.

Take a look at the Whyte and Marins

Some good deals here from ATB
http://www.atb-sales.co.uk/atbshop/rang ... Models=MTB