Hey everyone,
I'm new to the forums. I've already introduced myself in the general intro forum, but since I'll probably be spending the majority of my time in the MTB forum I figured I'd introduce myself here. I recently moved to Alaska from Texas, where I did quite a bit of cycling. I sold my bikes off to help pay for the move (graduate school), but I'm planning on buying myself a bike tomorrow. There's a bike swap being sponsored by the local cycling club and I hope to find a good deal there. If that doesn't happen I'm looking at either a Specialized Hardrock or a Trek Wahoo (basically the same thing). Anyone have any opinion on either of these? I'm going to try out a 29er, oddly both LBS recommended a 29 when I mentioned I'd be riding on the campus trails, which are apparently heavy with roots and undergrowth (I've only seen them covered in snow as ski trails). I welcome any advice and hope to get to know some of you guys. Cheers.

I'm a recent convert to 29er, but theres a few points to note
- The courses I race, the 29er tested faster than my 26er
- The 26er is a bit more 'fun' to ride around when your just playin
- If your racing, mmm I'd be erring on the side of 29ers
- A 26er will handle everything a 29er will, the 29er just makes it all a bit more.... boring. which is great for racing cause you literally point and shoot and focus more of your energy on trying to get your breath

WOW talk about a change of scenery! Alaska to Texas, sounds like a horror reality show. But I hear TX has good trails, should be fun. People have argues the 26 vs 29 and now the phantom 650B has entered the conversation. (Hans Shurter WC Victory on a HT 650B, of course Absalom continues to win on his 26. But they are from a different planet.)

Welcome to the thread. As you mentioned, both bikes are worthy and quality. A rule we have here is nothing is real without a picture. Post what you get.

Actually, it was the other way around, from TX to AK. There were some good trails in TX, just not in Corpus Christi, which is why I was a roadie down there.
I bought a Trek Wahoo and went with 26. Love it so far.

Niiicee

Alaska, whoa, nice! Good bike as well. More pics please!