Hi
I borrowed my friend's bike last week and had a great time riding it so I've decided I'm just about to buy my first bike since I was a youngster and thought you guys would be able to give me some good advice.
I want to spend £250 - £300 and will be riding it largely on the hills and downs of sunny Guildford - but would also take it on roads for local transportation too.
I've been recommended the Specialized Hardrock Sport by quite a few mates and have found the '06 for £250 (http://www.devercycles.co.uk/dever-a-bike-2006.asp?pid=MBSPZHARD0206) and the '07 for £300 (http://www.evanscycles.com/product.jsp?style=70060) which puts them both in the right pricing ballpark for me.
So my questions are:
Is the '07 worth the extra £50?
What other bikes in the price range would you suggest and why?
What parts are junk on the Hardrock Sport and what would you replace them with?
Cheers in advance