[brownieinSC]

I recently posted a thread about a $600-800 but I don't think I can get one with the components I want and at a lesser weight than I have now
So I am having a few bike shops pull in some bikes for me to try. They are more but I think they will be much lighter and have much better components.
I am an XC rider and just recently got into a race. I had a great time and am hooked. I need a bike that will race better than my Specialized Rockhopper.
So, any opinion on these two bikes? One you think is better around that price range ($1100)?

 

[StormShadow]

I personally don't care for the Genesis geometry, but that is not to say the Crack'nfail isn't a good bike. You should also check out the Giant XTC or maybe last year's NRS if anyone has one on sale. Another good bike to check out is the Jamis Dakota. It comes in either aluminum or steel.