Mountain Biking - Thoughts on the Cannondale Claymore

Was hoping some of you may have experience with this bike as it's tough to find any reviews (tried Google with dim results). I'm due for a new bike when I get back in country, and there are many on my list. I'd like more of an all-mountain type bike, but also something I can ride to the top with easily. My trails are in the Santa Monica mountains and rides generally start with 2-3k feet of climbing before descending.

The descents have a lot of features, from small jumps and some berms to steeper features. Nothing like the pacific northwest, but it can be challenging if one wants. Anyway, what appeals to me about this bike is the 110mm climbing function, and the descendability (word?). Planning to do some Mammoth riding next year and more riding in Nevada, AZ, and CO as well.

Any feedback on this rig?

http://cdn.cannondale.com/catalog/product/cache/3/small_image/725x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/c/_/c_12_2va1_bbq_8.png

http://www.cannondale.com/2012/bikes/mountain/overmountain/claymore/2012-claymore-1-21289

There are so many options in that price range it will make you dizzy. I could probably name a dozen others I'd look at before that bike but to each their own. If you are looking for that class of bike in that price range you'd be foolish not to do some thorough research and a lot of test rides before plunking down any money.

There are so many options in that price range it will make you dizzy. I could probably a dozen others I'd look at before that bike but to each their own. If you are looking for that class of bike in that price range you'd be foolish not to do some thorough research and a lot of test rides before plunking down any money.

Thanks

I'm looking at a lot of bikes (Pivot Firebird and Mach), Spec. Enduro and SJFSR, and others.I was hoping someoe would have personal experience with this one since reviews are very limited. It's really a lot more travel than I need, but that allows for some growth too I figured.

Cheers

Rob

Currently building up a Pivot Firebird myself. That frame is sweet because you can make it a sub 30lb goat or you can throw a 180mm fork on the front and basically have a freeride bike that can still climb(the route im taking). Also have a buddy working on a Knolly Chilcotin which is another pretty awesome bike in that category. Trek Slash or Remedy would be others to consider. But like previously stated, there are a lot of bikes that will fit that mold for that price. Ide take Dminors advice and go demo a bunch and see what you like.

My cousin owns one, he lives out in maryland. I rode it for a day (he used my uncle's stumpy fsr) and it's quite nice. before a drop, just flip the switch on the handlebars and you have instant 180 travel, and for the flats, it seems like a heavy xc bike. I think its good all around, but you should consider the stumpy and enduro too. If you don't think that you need the 180 travel, think about the stumpy. It's lighter and faster. If you like the cannondale "two shocks in one" thing, look at the jekyll too, its 150 and 90 I think...