I'm looking for a XC FS upgrade under $2500. I raced my first race this year with my Fisher hardtail and now I'm hooked. I would like to compete in 3 to 4 races a year. I am 6'1 175. I have read alot of posts on the different bikes and all of your advise seems very benificial. I live in Nothern Wisconsin so we have plenty of dense forest with alot of tight singletrack with roots and rocks, some sand. There are also plenty of short climbs and fast downhill spots. Here are my choices and I would appreciate any return advise
1) Giant NRS1
2) Specialized Stuntjumper
3) Turner Burner
4) Fisher Cake or Sugar Race
5) Trek Fuel
6) Titus X-racer
I like the small brands but there are no dealers in WI for Titus and Tuner so it would be special order. I first off wanted carbon, but now have setteld on a lightweight aluminum.I have had others tell me that if I crash with carbon there would be a greater probablity of frame damage then other materials, plus it my be to felxy. I would really rather demo the bike first. So of all of these what would be the best bike. What bike is probably the lightest? I'm going in today to ride a few and I'll repost an update.
1) Giant NRS1
2) Specialized Stuntjumper
3) Turner Burner
4) Fisher Cake or Sugar Race
5) Trek Fuel
6) Titus X-racer
I like the small brands but there are no dealers in WI for Titus and Tuner so it would be special order. I first off wanted carbon, but now have setteld on a lightweight aluminum.I have had others tell me that if I crash with carbon there would be a greater probablity of frame damage then other materials, plus it my be to felxy. I would really rather demo the bike first. So of all of these what would be the best bike. What bike is probably the lightest? I'm going in today to ride a few and I'll repost an update.