Originally Posted by
indygreg
I am happy with my decision. Both are great deals. That fork is flexy but I am fine with it. The tires are expensive light junk if you ask me. Just too little tread, protection and width. As soon as you put on real tires you will gain 1 lbs or more.
I'll echo what Greg is saying and add some. There are going to be things that you may want to change as soon as you get it. Are you OK with the 12-27 cassette? Are you OK with the super light-no traction tires? Do you want to change the seat or grips?
These are all questions you have to answer and then decide if your budget can handle it. That $200 could come in real handy to do comfort stuff that will be very apparent to you on the trail if your budget is tight. If you're fine with the budget, then spend the extra $200 and get the XTR and carbon. If not, the lower cost bike is still _really_ nice.