Specialized Carve Comp vs Voodoo Wanga

Daveace

Hi.

I'm looking to buy a second hand hardtail for trails and general XC. I've tried a few out but discounted most of them (Voodoo Hoodoo, Specialized Hardrock Disc, RockRider 8.1 etc etc). I think I've got it down to either the Specialized Carve Comp or the Voodoo Wanga. As I'm buying second hand both are the 2011 or 2012 models. Prices are between £450-550 for clean, regularly serviced examples.

Does anyone have experience of these bikes? I'm torn between the Wanga which gets better reviews and looks like the better value for money, or the Specialized which as a 29er feels slightly more comfortable (I'm 6ft) albeit somewhat less manoeuvrable at slower speeds.

Or you could throw a spanner into the mix and suggest something else!!

Thanks,
Dave

Huckfinn

Id personally go for the Voodoo. From what I remember the specialised didnt have a very good fork, where as the Wanga does and the general spec is better.

Daveace

The fork on the Specialized is the bit I'm worried about. There is someone selling a Carve Comp and they've upgraded the fork to an X-fusion slide 29, but it would mean travelling nearly 200 miles to collect it!

Agreed the general spec is better on the Wanga but I'm being drawn to a 29er (not specifically the Carve Comp).

Does anyone have any 29er alternatives with a similar spec to the Wanga??

Daveace

Here's a comparison of the two bikes to make life easier:
http://www.thebikelist.co.uk/specialized/carve-comp-29-2012/vs/voodoo/wanga-2011

cooldad

No argument the Voodoo - everything is much better, - really nice kit.

-BA-

Hope I am not too late in joining this thread for the OP but he/she might want to ring around Halfords. There are some very limited stocks left of the Wanga going for £500. I managed to get the last one reserved in one of the stores today but seemed quite a few of the Kent area stores had them in.

http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/voodoo- ... st18907298

Don't forget 10% discount for British Cycling members.