It certainly looks like it’s possible to find a better spec bike s/h, but that might take a bit longer than just going out and buying a new one. The thing that worrys me is “crappy forks” at that price point, some are so shocking it would be better to be fully rigid!

Also i just know he’s gonna want to keep up with my Zesty when we ride togther, which could lead to a few sketchy moments…… 😉

Also, i’ve got most of an XT drive train in components after a serious bout of “upgradeitus” on my two bikes, so maybe a decent older frame of Ebay, allowing for the fact that a few bits might be a bit worn out etc?