Mountain Biking - Cannondale Prophet or Specialized FSR Stumpjumper

Hi all, I know we're all tired of comparing bikes, but I guess that's one of the reasons for a forum like this, so here goes another comparison. I'm actually going to my LBS after work today to pick up a new Mountain Bike. I'm kind of a newbie, doing a lot of research, now I've finally gotten it down to two bikes. The Cannondale Prophet 600, or the Specialized FSR Stumpjumper.

I'll be using the bike pretty aggressively, but nothing too big. Small drops nothing over 5 feet, and jumping. As well as trail riding, which is one of the reasons I didn't want a downhill rig. I'll also be doing some freeriding and trying to perform light stunts. But I'm a lawyer who doesn't have too much time to practice anything too advanced. I just want a bike that will be durable enough to take some hits, but nothing extremely drastic.

I know the Cannondale won bike of the year last year, and I also know there are a lot of Specialized fans on here, so please give me your best unbiased opinions of the bikes. Thank you...

The stumpjumper is a cross country bike. It is not designed for jumping, freeriding, and 5 foot drops. The Prophet is a pretty solid all-mountain bike, and might be a good choice. It is similar to the Specialized Enduro line.

Are you set on a FS bike? I myself have been looking at some freeride hardtails, particularly the Santa Cruz Chameleon, and it looks to be able to do the things you mentioned. Just a thought......*sigh*, I wish I had 2 grand just lying around somewhere.

The new Stumpys have 120-130mm of rear travel. That should be enough for what you want to do. Although I believe it should handle your 5' drop I don't know as to how many it can if you do it on a regular basis. I hear a lot of guys with XC bikes and 4" of travel are doing 4-6' drops all the time without problems. Also depends on your weight and how well you know how to land.

I went with the Cannondale Prophet, both were sweet bikes, but I liked the fact that you can change the geometry of the frame for some downhill duty. That was the deciding factor. I also like the idea of the Lefty, it reacts with no friction whatsoever...

I just received my Rush frame with RP3 shock. Got most everything I need for build, except front fork is on backorder.

I went with the Cannondale Prophet, both were sweet bikes, but I liked the fact that you can change the geometry of the frame for some downhill duty. That was the deciding factor. I also like the idea of the Lefty, it reacts with no friction whatsoever...

Pics!!!!!!!! Gosh!Bodaggit!