Well see, I like and respect the way they ride, when I go by myself I might hammer a few miles then take a break, put around, hammer some more and do about half the work these guys do.

Essentially I want to be more like them. I tried riding with these guys in the past and couldn't keep up for 30 minutes. I was 40 pounds heavier then, I'm still too heavy but losing weight.

I think you're essentially right, my problem is about 40 extra pounds and less basic aerobic fittness. It doesn't hurt that they've been doing this 20 years longer then me and are all excellent riders.

I think I was telling myself I needed the 29r to ride with them, basically just an excuse.

I do like having a second bike for backup.

It doesn't matter now, I went ahead and bought it. I'll be in the Snatch soon.