Originally Posted by outdoorboy

A couple of things to consider besides weight. I find that on rocky, rooty trail my FS climbs better than my HT. The geometry will also matter as you'll want some weight on the back tire as mentioned above. I agree with Maelstorm about the Genesis geometry. I've riden a GF hardtail for years and enjoyed it's climbing ability but I recently got a Giant NRS and am finding myself faster on the rugged uphills. I tested a Giant trance and found that I lost control of the front end to easy (due to geometry) so it's important that you check out something that keeps your weight on the tire without losing control of the front. Good luck.