munkyboyZA

Thanks for the advise guys! From all the feedback I have received on this form and on MTBiker, the Moab seems like a decent frame with ok components (considering my initial budget) so it seems like a logic choice as a starter bike and to start saving for component upgrades thereafter.

I'm looking at buying a hardtail buy the end of the month, but can't make up my mind between the following bikes... GIANT REVEL 0 - [ http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-za/bikes/model/revel.0/8004/46817/ ] SCHWINN MOAB COMP - [ http://www.bicycling.co.za/bikes-gear/guide/moab-comp-0 ] MERIDA MATTS TFS 100 (2011) - [ http://www.cyclelab.com/products/MERIDA%20MATTS%20TFS%20100%20(2011).aspx ] TREK 4300 Disc - [ http://www.trekbikes.com/za/en/bikes/mountain/sport/4_series/4300_disc/ ] GT Avalanche 3.0 D - [ http://www.gtbicycles.com/zaf/bikes/mountain/endurance/2011-avalanche-3-0-disc-equipe-black-green ] I was leaning towards the Schwinn Moab due to the editorial review on bicycling.co.za, but from what I have read in these posts, they rank quite low on popularity. I have very little knowledge of the tech specs of these bikes and how to compare them, so your help would be valued...