What XC for £600 purchase imminent..

[WaspsNest]

Hey fellas,

I used to be into cross country about 10 years ago. I was fairly heavy into it at the time.
FFWD to now and I'd like to pick up another hard tail and get back into it.

I have about £600 to spend, and I'm considering the following after some research. Thing is, components have moved on so much in the time I've been away, it's all a bit baffling.

Short list:
Voodoo Bizango 29er
Boardman 650 HT
Trek Xcaliber 7/8
Scott Aspect 7xx or 9xx
Giant Talon 27.5

Is there anything I'm missing?

I live in Herts (WGC) so going to fly around some stores tomorrow and most likely come home with something.

Any advice appreciated!

[DanielSan]

I was in similar position last year, ended up overspending slightly and going for the GT Avalanche Elite, good spec, especially for the price. Really pleased with mine. That was just shy of 700. Will be cheaper if you find somewhere selling last year's models also...

[Gizmoish]

Worth a look at Cube, the 13 range at Halfarsed and maybe a Whyte?

[anonymous-user]

I would have a look at Vitus, but they are sold online only through chain reaction cycles. Must admit, I don't know much about their hard tails at this budget. But their full suspension bikes at £1000+ are always well reviewed and great value. They are good value because Vitus is CRC's in-house brand, so they distribute their own product and are thus cheaper to buy.

[WaspsNest]

Bought a Cube Analogue. Had money left for bits also.

Thanks.

Mods - feel free to delete thread.

[Woody]

Carrera fury is a good buy - Raidon Air forks like the bizango but 650b instead of 29'er.
I've got the previous 26'er model and it's great.