Frame ideas for next project

rockmonkeysc

I'm really liking my Giant XTC but could really use a bit of squish at the back end to save me getting beat up.
It's going to be something similar, a light XC bike to suit a 100mm/120mm fork and a 135 rear end. Something good for covering lots of miles.
So far I have decided that I want something a bit different, so not Giant/Specialized/Trek etc but I'm not getting any further than that. It will probably be second hand and up to £800. I really wanted a Turner Flux but all the used ones I have found have cracked so I have gone off of them.
Any other ideas for what to look for?

supersonic

£600 in Medium:

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/FRTITXCARRS ... arch_shock

5lbs!

The Rookie

Scott...the XC FS are very nice (check link in sig to my sons Genius - Frame is just 2.25Kg with shock and remote and mech hanger.

rockmonkeysc

I'm sure the Titus is very good but it just doesn't appeal to me. I was kind of thinking Turner/Ellsworth/Santa Cruz etc. I don't mind going used.
The Scott is also good but if I was going for the usual big brands I would just buy a Giant Anthem or Trance.

supersonic

I suppose there will always be an element of appeal - personally I'd never touch an Ellsworth or Turner, two of the most massively hyped and overated brands ever (IMHO lol ;-))

rockmonkeysc

The older horst link 5-spot is the best mid travel bike I have ridden which is why I liked the idea of the Flux.

supersonic

The Flux is totally different though from a sus point of view, much more anti squat at the beginning of the travel (and a bit more peedal kickback).

But it hard to recommend stuff that is a bit different lol. I know you like the Trance, why not another?

rockmonkeysc

It's very tempting but I know the Trance is wicked fun with a 140mm fork and that's not where I want to go with this build. What I want is a light XC bike which is still fun to ride and strong enough to take the occasional drop or blasts down rocky trails but also great at all day epic rides.

123oldman

If you like the Trance, why not consider the lighter shorter brother Anthem?
*Pinch of salt - Came 2nd in the Trail bike of the yr

Maybe not enough rear travel for your needs though?

rockmonkeysc

Travel has nothing to do with it, I have been riding hard enough on a hardtail for the last few years, even did a season of downhill racing on one. Geometry and frame strength count for a lot more. Could be worth a demo on an Anthem too see what they ride like.