bigblockquad

First off this is my first post so hello to all. I'm looking for a new bike and have run into more options than I thought I would have so I'm hoping to get some advice. Here's my dilemma:

I'm currently riding an 03 Specialized Rockhopper FSR XC disc. It's a great bike but I feel like I'm ready for more. I'm looking for a good cross country bike with descent travel. Most of my riding is on pavement and dirt trails but when I go off-road I can be pretty hard on a bike. I weigh about 215 lbs and full suspension is a must. My philosophy is buy a little more than what you need so you don't regret it. I am most likely gonna buy used and I want to keep the price about $1,500 but nothing over $2,000.

So far I've ridden a Cannondale prophet 800 and like the bike but I hated the shifting mechanism. It's the one where you push down/pull up on the brake lever housing. Didn't feel natural to me.

I'm also considering the following:

2) Specialized Stumpjumper FSR with 120 mm of travel
3) Specialized Epic comp
4) Iron Horse MKIII
4) Iron Horse Azure.

I don't think I'll be considering a Trek. I've ridden an 04 fuel 80 and It seemed too cramped for me.

Are there any other bikes I should consider and of the bikes I've mentioned what would be the best choice.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance
Rich.

Raiyn

Why not just upgrade what you have? Like this:
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...760#post545760

You could also get your shock retuned and have a platform feature added by PUSH industries. https://www.pushindustries.com/

bigblockquad

Well I'd like to get a little better componentry ie, longer travel front and rear shocks including lockout. I'm also trying to get away from the torsional rear flex I get out of the frame. It gets pretty annoying.

Plus since I'll probably buy used if I can get a much better bike (stronger, lighter frame) at a lower price I wouldn't mind that either.

Thanks for the reply
Rich.