Yet another bike "shootout" +/- 15K

[HJV1999]

Had a quick look and this is what I found:

On the Rockshock side I would prefer Reba or above or equivalent Fox etc.

 

2011

Merida 1500 D

 

2011

Giant Trance X3

 

http://www.cyclefactory.co.za/bicycles/new-bicycles-from-cycle-factory.html

 

Scott Spark 40

 

Ghost AMR 5900

[katz201]

The new Spark 40 is a beauty!!

http://www.scott-sports.com/gb_en/product/11255/61164/221693

 

But some might say I'm a little biased when it comes to Scott bikes!

[HJV1999]

The 2012 will fall outside my price bracket, but can agree 2012 cosmetically

[GLuvsMtb]

Had a quick look and this is what I found:

On the Rockshock side I would prefer Reba or above or equivalent Fox etc.

 

2011

Merida 1500 D

Great if you like clown bikes. For an extra 4k you can upgrade the wheelset substantially to something like the American Classic Tubeless 2011 wheels

 

2011

Giant Trance X3

Fun type of bike with very relaxed geometry. For mild trail riding. Doesn't like climbing so much as this is the heaviest bike here

 

http://www.cyclefactory.co.za/bicycles/new-bicycles-from-cycle-factory.html

 

Scott Spark 40

Hope they give you the replacement frame upfront. All jokes aside: If Scott sorted out the weaknesses in the 2010 frames, it could be a great bike. Poor frame quality will stick for some time though. Its like saying Datsun, and thinking Rusting.

Ghost AMR 5900

Less known but seems comarable with the Giant.

 

My choice: The clown bike or the Trance depending on whether you want a fun trail bike or a hardtail 29er to look fast on.