I am looking at buying a 2016 Cannondale Trail 2 (perhaps today) that is on sale this week for $1000 instead of $1350 msrp. Not much for reviews online for the 2016 model, so I am seeking advise if this is a wise purchase.

My Riding Style: 51yo 200 lb man, started riding MTB for 9 months on a no-suspension Montague Folding 26" MTB. Pushing hard for maximum physical output on intermediate trail courses and small hills. Occasional long rides on level cross country ranging from dry to mud and water (which the Montague could handle on 2.2" Continental Race King tires).

Why Cannondale? I have a Connondale Six 6 road bike and love it. Also like to be different than the 80% of bikes I see that say "Specialized". However, I'm not stuck on Cannondale.

Also seems to be a good sale price this week at $1000 instead of $1350

Here are the specs:
Frame: Trail optimized 6061 Alloy
Fork: Rockshox 30 Gold TK, 100mm, Poplock remote lockout (air shock)
RD/FD/Shift/Crank: Shimano SLX/Deore/Deore/M522 Octalink, 42/32/24
Brakes: Shimano M506 Hydraulic disk, 180/160cm
Wheelset Alex DC3.0 / Formula
Cockpit: Cannondale C3/C3 seatpost with Cannondale Stage 3 saddle
Tires: WTB Bee Line 2.2 x 27.5
Weight: 29 lbs as measured at store

I did like the test ride very much.

Thanks,
Ray