Originally Posted by chris_pnoy

Hmmm... I'm thinking about the 4300 or the 3900, or the Bruiser. The 4500, although great w/ components, is out of my price range.

How strong are the hard tails? How heavy is the Bruiser?

This is a tough choice. I know I'm going to want to do some drops and some fairly rough stuff, but I also like the speed of a lighter bike, although like I originally mentioned, I'd beat the crap out of a road bike.

And, sorry B. I'm fairly sure I want a Trek. It's just one of the few brands that I've heard so much about over the years.