Specialized Demo buying advice

dhooper7

Had a great time in Morzine this summer, heading back out there again next summer.
However my 160mm Specialized Enduro took a beating, it really struggled with some of the big drops and jumps.

I'm looking at buying a second hand Demo to take next time as well as for uplifts that I do at Cwmcarn and BPW.
I don't know masses about them but it seems that the 2011 model was a huge improvement over the 2010. Any comments?
What size? I'm 5'11" and currently like my medium Enduro but I know I could easily go up a frame size. Will a large make me faster but reduce some of the fun to be had in the park?
Also should I avoid the Boxxer RC and try and get something with the R2C2 or better still, WorldCups?

Any Status owners out there, comments welcome.

Thanks

paul.skibum

I know plenty of people who like them and own them but many say, in common with my own Big Hit, the suspension does not lend itself to getting air as well as some - the rear suspension seems to suck up a lot making it a controlled bike on bumps and stutter but also robs you of some ease off the jumps - there are almost certainly better bikes out there for DH and FR applications although the Demo's do seem to go for a reasonable price. Used Demo 8 frame is going to cost you around a grand I am guessing.

My personal preference if I were shopping for something would be a V-10, TR250/450 or an Aurum with a Glory or Session somewhere behind. The Nukeproof Pulse/Scalp can be had for sensible money too.

mattv

2011 demo was a massive improvement over the previous generation. Definitely do NOT go for a size up in a demo, they feel big.

rockmonkeysc

I really don't like the Demo's rear suspension, it feels a bit dead and sucks up the kick off jumps.
The Boxxer R2C2 is the one to go for. World cups can be unreliable and RC's aren't particularly good.
Try to get a ride on a Demo, it's a fast race bike but not everyone gets on with them.
It's also worth looking at Transition TR450, Nukeproof Scalp, Mondraker Summum and Santa Cruz V10

dhooper7

Excellent comments so far. Thanks.
I don't care much for getting down the mountain fast, I want to have fun and kick off everything I see.
I have looked at other bikes, a V10 would be a great buy but I doubt I can pick one up for £2k.
A Scalp on the other hand I have looked at. All Scalp owners speak up now!
The Makulu is too ugly.
Wife has a Trance so a Glory isn't out of the question.

If many Demo owners can say it's tough to get off the ground then that could be some golden advice.

Basically have £2k to spend second-hand on a complete bike. RS R2C2 would be ideal.
Anthing apart from SRAM breaks would be great also...

paul.skibum

Few thoughts to get you started!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Nukeproof-Scalp-World-Cup-Downhill-Mountain-Bike-2011-Large-/321267802724?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item4acd0da264

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Transition-TR-450-Marzocchi-Hope-Mavic-Sram-And-Saint-/200999879719?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item2ecc86c427

http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/1479961/

rockmonkeysc

I have a Scalp. It's the most fun downhill bike I have ridden and easy to ride fast.
Nice stable geometry, progressive rear suspension and bomb proof. Great over jumps as well.
Very popular bike at races.
I would definitely recommend it.
Also worth looking at the Norco Aurum.