Zephyr11

I've never ridden lift serviced downhill before, so most likely I'll be sticking to beginner trails, maybe an intermediate if I'm doing alright. Any drops bigger than a foot and a half will likely be walked unless I'm riding well, feeling confident, and there's a nice transition at the end. That said, I'm not sure what bike to use. I'm not sure I want to rent a bike, since I feel like any bike I rent will likely be too large (I'm short enough that I don't feel confident on a lot of companies "small" bikes, particularly those with a lot of travel since I get weirded out if I have zero standover) or too big for me in the air (I got rid of a size short Norco 125 because it always felt too big when it left the ground and I felt more scared than in control). That leaves me with my 4" XC dual-squish and my burly hardtail. Pros for the hardtail is it's made to take more punishment than my current skill level will allow me to dish out, it's slack, and the chances of me breaking it are low. Even if I do break a component (which I feel is more likely than on your average XC ride), it's a crappy build that's cheap to replace. Cons are it's a hardtail, and I have less saddle time on that bike than on the FS, and I find myself riding better on the FS. Pros for the FS are that I tend to act like a better rider on that bike, and it has rear suspension which makes it more forgiving. Cons for the FS is it's a weenie XC bike that's not meant to downhill, it's got a steep HT angle, and most things on the bike would be expensive to replace (the frame in particular). But again, it's not like it's going to be hucked off huge drops...we're talking greens, maybe blues, whatever it turns out I can handle. Either bike will be ridden with platforms. Will one of those bikes work? Or should I suck it up and rent because 8 inches of squish will make up for the size thing?

never

The geo and travel combined will make a big difference. Call where ever you're going and see what they have for bikes. You'll have a lot more fun if you have the proper bike.

cryptid01

I think I would have enjoy climbing on a dh bike more than I would dhing on an XC bike. I agree with never, if you get the right tool for the job you will have more fun. Set your concerns aside - a big squishy bike is pretty easy to adapt to and get comfortable (and confident) on.

dminor 

What they said . . . 'nuff said.

Zephyr11

Well that was a pretty unanimous decision. Thanks guys, looks like I'm renting a Glory!

dminor 

A fine machine. Enjoy. Tip: after you get some time on it and gain some confidence, stretch yourself a little and go off something that would give you pause normally. You will be rewarded.