New bike conundrum

[Conni]

Hi guys and Girls

 

Thought i would ask some opinions. Currently have a Swift Evil Twin Awesome bike but i also love trying new things.

 

Want to get something else. Was looking at Scott Pro or Team . I believe good value for money.

 

Trek top fuel 9,8 SL seems to be my favorite to get although quite expensive.

 

I Love racing so would like something nice and light.Your opinions on these bike and maybe some other options to considering.

 

Thanks

[V12man]

How competitive are you really? Standing on podiums regularly? Or more of a mid packer that likes to race?

 

Just to see where to place you ito bikes

[Conni]

Just started racing in Feb but def not podium yet. But have to have dreams and something to work towards. Top 20-30 finisher

[Conni]

Dont need to podium just want to see how fast i can get

[rudi-h]

it's not much of a conundrum...

 

1)  work out your budget

2)  figure out where and what terrain you're going to ride (from your post i assume xcm racing?)

4)  go to 3-5 shops on a saturday morning and pick your favourite from each

5)  test ride some bikes

6)  choose the one that you like most

7)  drop the cash and don't look back

[splat]

Listing bikes similar to the Trek Top Fuel:

(XC race bike with approx 100mm travel front & rear):
 
Cannondale Scalpel
Specialized Epic
Giant Anthem
Scott Spark RC
Momsen Vipa

Add:

Santa Cruz Blur
 
All have their own pro's and con's in terms of  geometry and suspension.
It comes down to what grabs your eye, and to quote someone else: 'gives you that fizz around the root of your gentleman's sausage'.

If you can get a test rig, take one for a spin.

Getting a proper setup is also key. Not all bikes suit everyone.

[V12man]

I would probably add the new Spez Stumpjumper and thenSanta cruz blur to Splats list - a little more travel than 100mm will probably have some benefits for you - around 120mm front and rear - budget might be an issue with the sc

[Heel Drop]

Listing bikes similar to the Trek Top Fuel:

 

Cannondale Scalpel

Specialized Epic

Giant Anthem

Scott Spark RC

Momsen Vipa

 

All have their own pro's and con's in terms of  geometry and suspension.

It comes down to what grabs your eye and to quote someone else: 'gives you that fizz around the root of your gentleman's sausage'.

If you can get a test rig, take one for a spin. Getting a proper setup is also key. Not all bikes sut everyone.

I had both the epic and the Scott RC and prefer the Epic - test ride test ride and test ride - its the only way