I had the same debate and plumbed for the 4 over the 4s in the end.
I have twigs for arms and it doesn’t look or feel bulky in any way, so I made the right choice but I’ve been a watch wearer my whole life so it feels normal wearing one.
I’d echo the above about the screen protector and it certainly needs one but the film types have been fine so far.
I’m really happy with it so would definitely recommend.

Bird Zero AM

Edit: link not working

It would be much better in the opposite direction

I’ve had my Zero Am boost since June last year. Easily my favourite ever bike and the one that I make time to ride more than any other I’ve owned. It’s so well put together for the riding we do in the UK and Bird were great to deal with when I was ordering it, plus the build on arrival was first class.

I too am holding out in the hope that Bird will do a slack short travel 29er, akin to the Whyte s120. Please Ben, make it happen 😁.

It’ll hopefully make a bit of a change to the usual stuff we ride, so if we can get a couple of hours out of it we’ll be happy.

Good stuff, thanks. We’re looking to get there early on Saturday so 07:30 is ideal if we can get parked.

That image above is a Trek Powerfly with Airdop written on it.

Bird Zero AM is an option. Slightly above your £400 budget but you did say (ish).

Had mine since June and it’s brilliant, always looking forward to riding it.

https://www.bird.bike/product/zero-am-2018-frameset/#configuration

Had my 2018 Remedy 8 since the middle of the year and couldn’t be happier with it.

It’s one of those bikes that is just good at everything, no weak points or compromises.

For the price and spec, I think it’s hard to beat.

Yep, same for me. The standard steel bearing one I had lasted a couple of months before seizing. The sealing on it was rubbish. I won’t be buying another from them.

One of the more typical suggestions, but the Bird Zero is excellent. I’ve had my AM boost a couple of months now and genuinly can’t fault it. Really surprised how well it climbs and is brilliant going down hill.