OK, about me:
*) Currently ride Trek ex5. Happy with it, but want something lighter, faster, and simpler. Live in florida, FS is good on some trails and not so good on others.
*) Have a good relationship with local trek shop
*) 225lbs. 6'
*) Getting in shape and wanting to take my skills up a notch or two
799$ http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom29pro_08.htm
1099$ http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/fisher_29er/cobia/ I can maybe work a small discount but not much.
The moto is a better deal obviously, but how much better? The next notch up on gf, the rig 29er, is 1539$ which is simply outside my budget. Going local has advantages though and it's hard to put a dollar value on that. I know this is a tough choice many rider struggle with. I'm just looking for an informed opinion on the difference in bike performance so I can make the call.
*) Currently ride Trek ex5. Happy with it, but want something lighter, faster, and simpler. Live in florida, FS is good on some trails and not so good on others.
*) Have a good relationship with local trek shop
*) 225lbs. 6'
*) Getting in shape and wanting to take my skills up a notch or two
799$ http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/fantom29pro_08.htm
1099$ http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/fisher_29er/cobia/ I can maybe work a small discount but not much.
The moto is a better deal obviously, but how much better? The next notch up on gf, the rig 29er, is 1539$ which is simply outside my budget. Going local has advantages though and it's hard to put a dollar value on that. I know this is a tough choice many rider struggle with. I'm just looking for an informed opinion on the difference in bike performance so I can make the call.