Originally Posted by
dguest
The LBS where I bought the bikes only caries Specialized and the LBS that was at the meeting caries TREK. They are the only 2 LBS with in 80 miles of where I live.
As far as the type of riding we have in the area and that we will be doing. 75% will be either gravel multi use trails or true mountain bike trails and 20% will be on tar and gravel rural roads with about 5% on actual asphalt.
Trek and Specialized both make a wide range of very good bicycles. I wouldn't totally rule out the guy who spoke to your meeting, even if he is too strongly opinionated. There is a thread of truth behind some of his opinions, but he needs to be more open minded and flexible. There may be other people at his shop who could be more helpful when you are looking for your next bikes.
I think the Crosstrail Elite bikes you ordered will be very good for the kind of riding you plan to do. I hope the LBS worked carefully with you to determine the right size as the Crosstrails are sized very oddly.