Sorry, slightly confused, you were asking about actual/effective cross bar (top tube) length rather than head tube? Carve, Rockhopper and Clockwork all have 130mm head tubes in 21″/XL.

Not sure thats quite right, (unless Im reading it wrong, in which case I did when i bought the frame too!!), as far as I can see they are identical to within 2mm, which is totally insignificant.

XL Orange Top Tube (actual length) = 622mm
21″ Rockhopper Top Tube (actual length) = 621mm

XL Orange Top Tube (Effective / Horizontal) = 648
21″ Rockhopper Top Tube (Effective / Horizontal) = 650mm

Importantly bear in mind this is where the trail gemoetry comes in for the orange, I think the head angle of the Orange is quoted at 70 degrees which is already slightly slacker than the rockhopper at 71, but I read somewhere that the 70 deg is based on the basic clockwork model with the 100mm fork and with the 120mm fork makes this around 68 degrees, plus it also brings the front end up by 2cm, more comfortable and arguably more fun!

Hello!

No problem, happy to help if I can. I also had a trek hartail years ago (7000 I think) didnt last long before I went back to a Rockhopper Pro. Since then every bike Ive bought has been an XL spesh as they just fit. Being tall it seemed logical to give the 29er thing a serious look (opens can of worms) but wasnt that impressed with the Rockhopper 29er spec and it felt heavy. In the end I had a sit on a large Clockwork to convince myself it was too small, (it was) then bought an XL frame and built it up to a decent spec, (within you budget) and with a short stem and wide bars its superb. Not put many miles on yet but know it fits well.

My advice would be (given youre on the extremes of sizing), ignore the specs for the moment and find a frame that fits you, then buy what you can afford with a view to a couple of upgrades when you can afford it, or buy the frame and build it up.

Off the top of my head mine ended up being just under your budget and with a mix of XT/X9 drivetrain, XT brakes, Hope Pro/crest wheels, Roxshock Revs. Shop around and there are bargains to be had.

Definitely go to the Orange dealer and if nothing else rule out the clockwork or decide that you like the way it fits.

BTW. I think the basic model has a 100mm fork so be aware if you sit on one that the front end will be lower, look for the “S” or Pro model to try which both have 120mm fork.

Hi Chalky46 – I think we’re probably similar height (Im 6’4″) and have the same issues with geometry. Ive always bought specialized bikes (size XL) as they just seem to fit me and I know exactly what you mean about the riding position. Im pretty sure the Carve is more XC focussed so it wont be as comfortable than say a Rockhopper 29er.

Ive recently bought an XL Orange clockwork 29er frame and built it up with 120mm forks and the geometry and riding position is absolutel superb. Its more “trail” focussed so a bit slacker and think you’d find it comfortable.

The Clockwork “S” is within your budget and the “Pro” just outside, or you could build one up as and when yuo can afford it?