I need some help deciding on a new mtn bike ($500-700). I've been looking at Specialized Rockhoppers, Norco Storm 9.1 and maaaybe another Giant, Talon. Also was looking at a Specialized Pitch, but those have the 27.5 tire size (or at least the one I was shown).

That got me thinking, which tire size is better suited for me, the way I ride (mostly paved, but want to try some offroad, fast and lean into corners) and my size. 29's felt great, but should I stay smaller, possibly sturdier 27.5? I weigh around 250, give right now, hopefully take by end of summer...5'10, so a med frame felt better than a large.

Them there's frame design that was brought up in some research. About how some have bent upper tubes, some more slanted, etc, etc. How does this play in to my decision?

I've rode a large frame N.Storm 9.1, med frame G. Talon and a small frame GT something or other, the Pantera maybe? The Storm felt good, even for a large frame. The Talon was only an 18 spd, didn't really like the less selection of gears to make speed increase/decrease more fluid, and I really liked the 29s over 27.5. But are they still structurally stable as a 27.5 for my size and taking bumps, pot holes, curb hops, tight turn leaning, etc.

So to break it down:
-which tire size should I stick with, 29, 27.5, or does it matter except personal preference, comfort?

-what are you opinions on the following bikes and which one would you choose
-S. Rockhopper(29")


-Norco Storm 9.1 (29")


-Giant Talon (27.5)


-S. Pitch (27.5??)



Thank you for reading and please help! We have a 18 mile bike ride coming up end of May and I want to get everything broken in, some ride time in and my son used to the bigger size bike.