Scott or giant

Could you post links to the bikes?
Most people don't memorise the specs of all the bikes available.

The Giant is the better of the two, but both are poor for the cash - much better to be had. In fact the Scott is one of the worst bikes for this money I have ever seen, they should be ashamed at releasing something like that! The Giant inexplicably has steel bars, I don't know what they are thinking either, as they make some great value bikes elsewhere.

For £350-£400 you can get a bike with a damped fork (this adds control over the rough stuff), hydraulic brakes (even the budget ones offer great power and control these days), quality 8/9 speed drivetrains with good gear ranges and decent alloy finishing kit. One such bike is the Rockrider 540:

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/rockrider-54 ... 50454.html

Or Calibre .22:

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/calibre-two ... ke-p275612

Or Carrera Kraken:

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/m ... -bike-2015

All three of these will offer you a higher performing ride. However, depending on how much off roading you will be doing, a more road oriented bike might suit you better.