Rather unexpectedly work are running the C2W scheme again this year, up to £1K again with the option of topping it up out of my own pocket… having had my road bike out of it a couple of years ago I’m fancying a simpler off the peg MTB or possibly a CX bike so I can work some off road action into my commute, I’m trying to stay open minded about it all so I’ll rule nothing out yet SS or Alfine (Although I’m inclined to wait for the Alfine 11spd hub to come out now), rigid or bouncy forked steel or aluminium, I don’t mind thus far my short list runs
Genesis:
-IO
-IO ID
-Day one ‘Cross
Charge:
-Duster SS
ON ONE:
-Inbred SS – 26”
Specialized:
-Tricross single (assuming they are still doing it?)
Felt:
-Breed SS
Kona:
-Major one
-Unit
What else should I consider? I want simplicity, durability, low maintenance, off road capability, and VFM, so as far under £1K as possible (this all has to be run past the missus yet)

