I think he liked the 29 inch tires over the 26. He said it was easier in the grass. So he's pretty much set on the Specailized hardrock disc 29 and I think I'm going to look at the 29ers also. I'm really happy with the LBS as they are more help then any book I've read. They set all the basic stuff up on the bike (seat, handlebars, brake levers, etc.. ) before you test ride. Infact they told me (and this might be everywhere but) to ride everbike in the store intill I found the right one. The are about 1/2 mile from a bike trail and they always say go put some miles on it. Anyway I'm just very please with them.