help.... Stumpjumper or stumpjumper EVO

gj1975

First post so be gentle please.

I am a mid (read late) 30's, guy, (5'9" and physically fit but not as slender as i used to be) looking to make a significant new purchase.
Have been riding since i was a kid, and would class my style as endure the ups because i love the downs.
I have experience of bigger bikes (sx trail) and currently have a short travel 120mm boardman fs pro.

I have been lusting after a new steed for a while, flirted with a Commencal Mata Am, Considered a cube, and a Devinci, but keep coming back to the Stumpjumper.

I thought I had it all sorted out, found a 2011 expert carbon with £1000 of the rrp...... but then started reading about the 2012 carbon evo. Seams that most of the biking press are in love with it. but is it to much bike?

The reality is most of my riding will be in and around Sussex, with the odd trip (3/4 times a year) to Wales or 'Up North'. Did an Alps trip last year and plan another this year but probably with the SXT.

So the question is:
if i get the 2011 expert carbon, will i just keep lusting after the 2012 evo?
Is the evo just to much bike for the riding i will do most?
Who out there has been faced with similar decisions and what helped you decide which direction to go?

any thought or opinions gratefully received.

bennett_346

Evo if you can afford, normal if not. Simple as.

For the record i have the non evo stumpjumper and it's a brilliant bike, you won't dissapointed with either.

gj1975

Great start.... One vote for the EVO.

What do others think?
What insights can you share?

gj1975

Incidentally, could anyone point me in the direction of a descent review of the 2011 Stumpy Carbon Epert? I can find plenty about the New EVO, but little about last years non EVO carbon model.

gj1975

Still reall need help with this, would love to here from those that own either of he bikes in question, or a serious alternative.

Thanks