Mountain Biking - Which bike to Buy?

I figured since everyone else had a thread looking for advice I'd start one of my own.


Im trying to decide between the Santa Cruz Blur or the Rocky Mountain ETSX-70. Which would you choose and WHY?!?!?

Both good bikes. I test rode a RM and really liked the feel. It was however a bit flexy due to the location of the pivots and links. I will add that I'm a very big guy and can apply a lot of lateral load.

I've also ridden a blur, and think the VPP is by far the better suspension design of the two. Couple that with the new suspension technology and you have a awesome peddaling bike that is plush on the rough stuff. Almost nothing to complain about.

I will add that my current "lust" bike is the new Intense 5.5. I've ridden a Spyder and thought it was the creme de la creme. My only complaint was not enough travel for my style. Lo and behold they bust out with the 5.5. Yes Virginia, there is a GOD! I want one!

L8R

I've heard some bad things about the rear end of the Blur. Poor mud and tire clearance. And the long chain stays. The mud clearance is a fairly big deal since I ride in quite a bit of mud here in Tennessee. I also understand it has a very low BB.

The only negative thing I ever hear about the ETSX-70 is the flex in the rear end. This is only mentioned from heavier riders(which I am not).

So anyone else have positives or negatives on either of these two bikes?

man.. do a search, there are tons of these threads...

sorry. i'd go for the blur. better rear suspension design, and plus it just looks sweeter