Hi, previously had a cheap Carrera hardtail MTB - years of abuse and beyond econmical repair. I know mainly do raod commute and occasional woodland paths as shortcuts.

Think I have found what I want - just after opinions/ experiences of ridgeback - this is £300 in my LBS near work.  I like the look and also has loads of clearance, disc brake mounts, takes 26" tyre so I can reuse my current spares. Also has bigger 48T chainring as was running out of speed on previous 24spd MTB.

Only thing I don't like is the shifters but have some 8sp STX I can re-use. Opinions appreciated.

http://www.ridgeback.co.uk/index.php?bikeID=34&seriesID=42&show_bike=TRUE

thanks  JonMaC (member here previously but could not remember login)

well plunge taken & have bought it - well pleased.

see how it goes on the commute this week.

JonMaC