New MTB bike advice

[Cubist]

Evening all,

I'm looking for some advice on full suspension bikes. My routes are a combination of roads and rocky tracks all in one. There are some fairly big hills to deal with as well. I want a bike that is able to give me a satisfying ride on the tracks without being massively heavy. I want to feel in control and at the same time have confidence in the bike to push it hard on the tracks. I'm a huge fan of the Orange Five, but heard it's very heavy. I'm looking at a 26" wheel (although I'm open to being swayed bigger) and would like some decent brakes (hope?).

Can anyone offer some advice or experiences there had with different bikes. At the moment I'm in a Whyte 801, but it's not that great to ride.

Go used-bargain custom if you have the experience to put one together. (oh, and buy a hack off eBay for commuting......)

There are plenty of frames on sale, go look on Pinkbike or Singletrackworld. In fact, see this ad..... well within budget, just a fork, seatpost and brakes to find:
http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/fs-ibis-mojo-hd-splitting

 

[Jody]

Would a full suspension bike be hard to ride on the road for work etc?
Looking between £600 and £1500.

Depends on what you buy but commuting should be OK and is easily doable at your budget. I don't have room (or an understanding enough missus) to have more than one bike so had to pick one to do all. Ended up with a Giant Anthem. Weighs just 27lbs with pedals and bits on. Climbs really well and is comfy for all day rides.

 

[magicmerve]

SIngle pivot has its place, for those who ride on proper trails with proper rock'n'schitt. Tell these chaps their bikes don't work any more. NSFW, they aren't called the Sweary Northerners for nothing. Pour yourself a nice shandy and enjoy: (oh, and spot the hardtail Cotic at 05 32 !)

View: https://vimeo.com/43723718

Are you having a dig at me being a southerner?

 

[magicmerve]

Depends on what you buy but commuting should be OK and is easily doable at your budget. I don't have room (or an understanding enough missus) to have more than one bike so had to pick one to do all. Ended up with a Giant Anthem. Weighs just 27lbs with pedals and bits on. Climbs really well and is comfy for all day rides.

That's a nice looking bike

 

[Cubist]

Are you having a dig at me being a southerner?

No, I was quoting (and therefore addressing) @Drago I am absolutely certain he drinks shandy. Or snowballs.