I'm actually very happy with the motobecane. It's a good frame, great components throughout, except for the crank (swapped to XT) and of course, the wheelset.

Why motobecane? Because I test rode an S-works EPIC 29er at 22.5lb at those Specialized Trial days, loved it, and wanted to find an inexpensive way to replicate the weight. My wife told me to spend less than $2k, and the motobecane came in at $2,099, so close enough... I can't think of any hardtail that compares for the price.

My road bikes - yes I like those too. I almost like the steel ones I bought used, more than my Cervelo because the Cervelo is readily replaceable.

Desired MTBs: 2013 Jet9 RDO in XS, and replace the Litespeed Cyclocross with a Salsa Fargo Ti. But that could mean divorce...