Its now between Jamis Dakar XLT 2.0 (2005, but brand new) and the Sette Ace. I am leaning towards the XLT. But the weight is crazy at 7.7 lbs. Although its a 5" travel bike. The XLT will cost me about $200 less than the Sette Ace.

I test rode a couple of Specialized full suspension bikes...Stumjumper FSR Comp and FSR Elite....was not really blown away.....but thats probably due to my inexperience.....The Elite felt really nice though.

Also rode a Jamis XLT (2007)...felt like a tank...heavy with its stock components....but it could be lightened up with a good set of wheels, fork, and tires.....

your comments please...