Opinions on new XC MTB?

[FatPunkChris]

I am looking at getting a new MTB that is good for XC does anyone have an opinion on a £1000 - 1500 price range bike?

Been looking mainly at this...

http://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/produc ... ?&id=12748

[Big Good Wolf]

I don't really look at new bikes enough to have an opinion myself, but there's some good round ups on BikeRadar.
It might be worth looking at the 2009 lists as well as there may be some last years model bargains out there still.

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12640231

[FatPunkChris]

Cheers mate, this is my first proper mtb so I wanna make sure I get something good value.

You are from Malvern area right? What are the tracks in your area?

C

[Big Good Wolf]

I'm in the Wyre Forest, Downhillingdemon is in Malvern.
The Malvern hills get packed with walkers at weekends at this time of year. DHD would be the best one to ask about where and when to go to avoid them.
There's a lot of good trails in the Wyre, but nothing is marked. It's best to go with someone who knows their way around for your first few visits.

[fredrikw]

the bike you linked to seems ok, but I'd say the most important thing when getting your first bike is to get it from you LSB (local bike shop), they can help you with setting it up, getting the proper size, and also future help if you run into mechanical trouble.