Hi guys Bit of a noob, so please excuse any questions that may come across as obvious to those of you more informed! I'm looking at getting a bike, and currently the two models i'm considering are the Silverback Sierra and the GT Zaskar Expert (2009). Both models are within my budget, so it comes down to specs. The GT has a lighter frame, whilst the Silverback seems to have much better components. If there is anything else in this price range that you guys could suggest it would be very much appreciated! Thanks. GT Zaskar Expert 2009: Frame: GT NEW design hydroformed Kinesis Superlight custom tube-set Machined Head tube, disc compatible Fork: Rock Shox RECON RACE, 100mm of travel, 7050 al steerer, Air sprung with rebound damping and motion control Crankset / Chainwheel: Shimano SLX, with Hollowtech 2 piece arm and bb, Bottom Bracket: Shimano SLX out board sealed bearings Pedals: Crank Bros Candy C Front Derailleur: Shimano Deore SLX Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore SLX Shifters: Shimano SLX nine speed trigger Rear Cogs: Shimano SLX 9-speed, 11-32 Chain: Shimano Nine Speed Rims: Mavic CrossRide Disc for Centerlock, with straight pull bladed spokes, QRM sealed bearing hubs, 24 holes front and rear Tires: Front/Rear 26"x 2.0 Kenda Karma 120 TPI with kevlar bead Front Hub: Mavic CrossRide Disc Rear Hub: Mavic CrossRide Disc Spokes: Mavic, straight pull bladed spokes Nipples: Mavic brass self locking Front Brake: Shimano SLX Hydraulic Rear Brake: Shimano SLX Hydraulic Brake Levers: Shimano SLX Hydraulic Handlebar: Ritchey Pro butted 2014 alum, Flat, 31.8 mm clamp, 680 mm width, Stem: Ritchey 6061 cold forged stem, with 6 degree rise, and 4 bolt face plate Grips: GT Lock Down Headset: FSA Integrated, sealed angular contact bearing Saddle: FIZIK Gobi XM with Manganese Rails Seat Post: Ritchey 31.6mm 3 D forged Seat Clamp: GT Alum QR http://www.gtbicycles.com/GTFiles/ProductImages//490_320_G9ZASEX_300_1.jpg Silverback Sierra: Shifters: Shimano XT - Rapidfire Plus Front Derailleur: Shimano XT Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT Shadow Chainwheel: Shimano XT Hallowtech II Bottom Bracket: Shimano XT Cassette: Shimano HG61-9 Speed 11-32T Chain: Shimano HG73 Pedals: Shimano PD-M520 Brake Set: Shimano Hydraulic M575http://www.silverbacklab.com/int_site/specs/sierra.jpg
