Cheers guys. Steps out for a few hours and…
Thanks for the list Clink some bikes to read up on, the Transition does look very nice but a bit toppy for my budget. Already done the ‘big’ purchase.
That Highball looks lovely Shortcut, it’s in the right ball park so must go take a spin.
Mini-hijack: where’s the border between a trail ‘HT’ and an XC? Just head tube angle?
Point it down hill and do you get that ‘yippy’ sensation or ‘sh*t’ best watch my line…
Leaving figures aside my classification for an XC bike is light, fast but probably (not always) a bit twitchy due to geometry and weight. Good for racing. For a Trail bike it’s still quick and nimble but feels more planted and secure. Slightly heavier and probably slacker but mostly it’s a combination of unique rider size (weight, leg, reach etc) combined with a bikes unique feel. That’s why testing is so important, what’s good for one is not necessarily good for another and what might be a small difference can make a whole world of difference on the trail.
That’s why we like discussing this so much… lots of opinions! 😉