Matts trail 800 D

What was wrong with the GT?

I had a Matts TFS 500-d from a couple of years ago. Can't really find much info on the one you mentioned to compare. Can you provide a link to it? The Merida I had was ok. I got it at a good price, but generally at full-price I'd say you can probably get better value for money (Halfords, Decathalon, etc). A friend has mine now and it's still going strong with some upgrades.

What is it you want the bike for? Is it just for commuting on road? If so, there are probably better options than a mountain bike.

It certainly looks alright. Couldn't see a price though. It is a bit different to mine, which was more of a traditional XC bike.

I don't really think the gears, chain, etc will be that different to your previous bike. They might be slightly higher level, but they all work the same way and require the same maintenance.

Tbh, it might be a bit much for just on-road, but maybe you'll start using it more off-road in future. It's always good to have the option rather than finding you need a new bike in a years time.

Personally,for that price I'd be looking in Halfords. The new Boardman range is much better spec'ed for that amount of money.

This would be roughly equivalent to the Merida:
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_777757_langId_-1_categoryId_165499#dtab

This would be better, but still cheaper:
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_777721_langId_-1_categoryId_165499#dtab

Then they may also have some of the 2010 models kicking around at a discount too.

Just make sure to at least sit on some and see what feels best for you (and not necessarily limit yourself to Halfords, they just happen to be incredible value).

What model GT was it?