Trying to decide on a approx £900-£1000 ‘budget’ XC hard tail.

Currently looking at these two favourites, Steel 45650 against an aluminium Clockwork 29er.

Shopping around they’re both coming in at just over £900.

What do you reckon? Based on experiences of rideability, fun etc ?

Where do you normally ride?

Malvern Hills, Wyre Forest and Forest of Dean mainly.

Oh, and it’s the Clockwork S model so reasonable set up.

Clockwork.
Frame sale at bike scene for build your own option?
456 were never light and the increase in wheel size is far less noticeable at 650b.
I’m a long term 29 convert though (Lakes, Scotland etc)
Tests?

Interesting, thanks