I have a standard marin east peak y2k model. When I bought it I also tested an Alpine Trail, £200 cheaper, the difference between the two was huge.
My question is could I spend £200 on the east peak now and get a similar hike in performance, and if so, what would be the best kit to spend on ?
cheers
Rich

Fiirst off - what drivetrain, forks, brakes and wheels does your East Peak have?

Wheels are Ritchey with off centr spokes and shimano hubs - seem nice n light IMHO, irc mythos tyres 1.95, manitou sx forks ( my first thought to change, but perhaps not in budget), in house ovation brakes ( not disks),Ovation front drivetrain, shimano bb mn52 or something like that, a shimano basic front mech - alvio(i think), deore lx rear, sram chain (new).
cheers
Rich

Biggest and most noticeable performance improvement for my bike is always a new rear mech cable.

Most noticeable difference also depends on what you're looking for!
Tyres, Handlebar grips & Saddle will make a BIG difference to how the bike actually 'feels', but some people would be much more satisfied from seeing pimpy brand names on handlebars, seatpost, etc.

I'm not convinced that XT kit actually has a noticeable performance difference to LX kit. Sure, it might be a fraction lighter or a touch stiffer, but I've never noticed any difference.
Beware of spending cash on bits that simply look pimpy.

If you're not using disc brakes, then I can assure you that they make a huge difference. Knowing you can stop is so reassuring. Hayes HFX9 are within your price range if you shop around, but not if you also need disc-ready hubs...

A new pair of shorts could also be a good investment! I just bought a pair of Endura MT500 shorts, and liked them so much that I went back and bought another pair the following week.

Actually, if you're not using SPD Shoes and pedals, then I'd say these should be upgrade #1

IMHO i'd change the forks - Marzocchi MX Comps (£140, merlin or CRC) are well within budget and are loads better than the manitous (I have a 99 rift zone which was fitted with these, but now run Bomber Z1's and have some MXC airs on my on-one), or you can get some Marzocchi MX Pro Coils (£199 merlin or CRC).

If you went for the MX comps you'd have change for a new LX chainset and BB (£50 from merlin).


BTW Marzocchi forks are about a pound(ish) heavier than the manitous, but well worth it.

Second Gary re the SPD's as well.