I agree but I cant comment on the difference yet. I rode a trek fuel 80 and it felt kinda nice. I was kind of heavy for me but it felt nice and smooth. confident even. My old Hardrock still feels like a surgical tool compared to it though. Its light and precise, I can put it where I want it and it climbs like a goat. I cant wait to ride my rockhopper. If I had more time to get used to the trek I'm sure the same thing it true of that bike as my friend really likes it alot.