Specialized Camber 29 Base 2013 VS. Stumpjumper FS Comp 2013

DSx1if30wn3r

Hey all; first off, I'm glad to join a great and respectable community here and hope I could get some input on my dilemma.

So, I'm stuck between 3 full-suspension bikes currently and can't decide which one to get:

Specialized Camber 29 (Base) 2013............$1750
Specialized Stumpjumper FS Comp 2013......$2000

- Terrain: XC, moderate hills, anywhere from no roots to lots of roots and rocks (NE USA)
- I have no plans to race yet, but if I ever do, it won't be too serious.
- Intermediate level rider

$2000 is a slightly over budget, but I can do that it if it's really worth it.
I know the SJ is slightly more suited for racing with more travel (Camber has 110mm), but honestly, if it's not THAT big of a difference, then I can go either way (assuming it's worth it). Remember, I'm more recreational, but I do like to go fast. In addition, I've already made my mind up on the FS.

I appreciate any advice you may be able to provide.

Thanks!
-DSx

cooldad

Links would help, as presume from the $ you are not in the UK.

(edit just noticed NE USA)

Cqc

The stock camber is pretty terrible value. Why specialized in particular btw?

DSx1if30wn3r

The Camber Expert is out of stock now anyways.

However, the 2013 Camber base got good reviews. It has a Rockshox fork unlike the 2014 which has Suntour (staying away from that).

Going for Specialized because I really like their bikes in terms of quality, feel, and I also own a Specialized Allez Elite 2013 road bike and love it. I know it's not a MTB, obviously, but I want to stick with them now.

mattv

Kit is very similar if they are the same as UK spec bikes, the Camber is slightly better suited to xc racing as it has a bit less travel, maybe slightly less weight, and a less aggressive tyre choice as standard. Stumpy is a more capable bike though, more travel and bigger tyres!

Cqc

Don't get me wrong, I think specialized is great (I ride a 2007 stumpy) but I think at this price point you can do better elsewhere

DSx1if30wn3r

I can do better at this price point with other brands? I am not as familiar with other brands as with Specialized, so I would appreciate it if you could give me some suggestions.

Thanks,
DSx

cooldad

Most people posting on here are from the UK, so unless you have Halfords or Decathlon, or sales at Paul's Cycles, it's a bit difficult.
But Spesh tend to be expensive for what you get as you are paying a wedge for the brand.

Prices also don't compare - we pay almost as much in £s as you pay in $s, so what is expensive here might not be there.

Cqc

Canyon?