UK 29" XC MTB not for racing

Trying to pick a few brains, I’ve got an ancient Giant Anthem x3 from 2009 that I upgraded to x1 but it’s definitely very long in the tooth and both shocks are long overdue a service…

So looking at a modern 29" XC bike, mostly some “easy” Yorkshire single track with occasional trips to some trail centres like Dalby (red route).

Not racing but I did like the XC feel of my Anthem so thinking a modern 29" is going to be streets ahead in terms of comfort and usability.

I like the look of the SWAT storage on the Spesh Epic Evo but it appears I’ve completely missed the boat on the 50% sales they ran earlier this year…

So wondering do I hang on for next years sales, or I’ve seen the 2023 Epic Evo for £2499 or £3,200 for the Comp or £2999 for the 2022 Epic Comp!! Or some Trek Top Fuels around for similar prices with integrated storage.

Help/pointers appreciated!

Greg

If you’re not racing ,and you’re not after super lightweight there are plenty of good deals around.
I don’t know which model/year Trek top fuel you’re after , but if your budget limit is say, 3,200, you can google and find lots of good offers.
My friend has a 2 year old Top fuel and it rides really nice on any of the terrain you’ll be riding, and is also quite light.
The Trail versions are heavier with slacker geometry, but XC better for you I think.
The Epic Evo is a lovely bike, but it may be worth waiting for next years sales.
All boils down to £££ in the end.
Best of luck in your search!

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Thanks, found this last night, few conversations with the very friendly shop and deal done, cycle scheme on top of the discount helps massively!

TREK 2023 Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS Gen 3 - The Bicycle Chain

I’ve been eying these up: https://www.origine-cycles.com/en-GB/theoreme-fs#choixTheoremeFS

It looks good at 120mm around, Instagram has some shots with Pikes at 130 which look really fun and very customisable for budget.

There’s a couple of riders on Reddit with them so I’m waiting for them to have for a few months reviews.

I’d say look at a downcountry bike with a little more travel (120–130 mm) and sturdier components then. There are some crazy good offers on BMC carbon hardtails on bike24.de at the moment.

Otherwise, I’d suggest you also have a look at Cube, which is ubiquitous in Europe and a very good deal.