Standard issue "Which XC bike" thread

Hi,

So, looking to replace the current bike (Boardman Pro 29, black and green 1) with a new XC oriented bike this year. Will be getting through a Halfords based cyclescheme so a little more limited for choices. I think budget ceiling is £1,600 and that will be pushing it to get past the boss. Think I’m down to a choice of 4, unless anyone can pull something from left field.

https://www.boardmanbikes.com/gb_en/products/2182-mht-8.9.html


£1,000. Obviously similar to what I have now and always seemingly good value, but not overly impressed with the SX drivetrain (son has it on his X-caliber 8 from last year). Boardman need to do a 9.0 like they did with the MTR and put a swanky drivetrain on it.

https://www.trekbikes.com/gb/en_GB/bikes/mountain-bikes/cross-country-mountain-bikes/x-caliber/x-caliber-9/p/29760/?colorCode=bluedark

£1,275. My son has the 8 and has been very happy with it, but it grates majorly that Trek prices have gone up so much in the last year, this bike was nearly £300 cheaper last year so just doesn’t feel like good value now.

https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/twostroke-al-one.html

£1,400. I know I mentioned SX fears, but this has more NX level bits in the drivetrain which makes me feel a little more comfortable. I think I like the look of this 1 best if that means anything.

https://www.scott-sports.com/gb/en/product/scott-scale-950-bike?article=280477008

£1,600. Priciest and raciest. Probably most likely to kill me but have just always just liked the Scales.

Please feel free to suggest/comment/bash/ridicule as you see fit. Any real world experiences of these or as I said earlier other suggestions? Did look at the Vitus Rapide but CRC/Wiggle don’t take the Halfords vouchers.

Thanks

Stuart