[ccarbot]

Hello everyone,

First post here, so take it easy on me.

Looking to buy my first "real" mountain bike. Up until now I've been borrowing my brother's Specialized Hardrock (don't know the year, but I think it's an 07 or 08, no disc brakes). I've got a number of choices in my price range, and am hoping to get as much input as possible on what some of the pros and cons of these bikes (and manufacturers) are. Here are the six contenders:

Cannondale F8 (would consider an F7 if I can find a good deal): http://www.cannondale.com/usa/usaeng/Products/Bikes/Mountain/Hardtail/CO2/Details/1293-0FS8-F8

Trek 3900 Disc: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/3_series/3900disc/

Trek Fisher Tarpon: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/fisher_g2_hardtail/tarpon/

Trek Fisher Advance: http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/fisher_g2_hardtail/advance/

Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc: http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=45759&menuItemId=0

I understand that test riding and fit will be critical in my ultimate decision (I'm 6'0", 198 lbs), but before I get to that point what should I know about these options, and for those of you that have/had any of them, what has your experience been?

Thanks a bunch, and I hope to find some great info here! :thumbsup:

 

[carlos91]

go either advanced or hardrock but try them out to see which you like more

 

[ccarbot]

Thanks for the reply carlos91. :thumbsup:

Any reason why you prefer the Hardrock and Advance over the others? I see it looks like you're riding a Trek 4300 - how would you compare that to the two you've recommended? I do like the Advance, but I'm not too crazy about the orange color scheme. A minor point I know, but its still probably me early leader right now.

No love for Cannondale either it seems. Any reason in particular?

Any other thoughts opinions are welcome!