Any recommendations for a solid all mountain bike

[retroenduro]

Last few questions, then I will leave you all alone.

I narrowed it down to a Norco Range 1 26", but can't find any. Can't seem to get the 650b version until next year. So that's out.
I looked at a Nukeproof Mega, but people are saying its its too downhill biased. Please let me know what you think if you own one, is it good for all day trails with some uphill slogs?

Decision seems to be between a Lapierre Spicy 516 and a Transition Covert 2. I'm leaning towards the Covert (26") because it looks like it can handle being thrashed on black diamond runs without a problem. The Spicy "looks" a bit flimsy in comparison. Thing is I want to sit on a Covert in Medium, because the top tube (581mm for medium) is the shortest one I've seen on all the bikes I looked at . I'm 5'10" and wondering if I'm between sizes. So is there a shop anywhere in Melbourne/Vic area that has either a large or medium in stock?

Thanks again.

Nukeproof mega is an awesome bike. Great value and rides well uphill. Of course its no XC machine but its tough, slack and fast and would do fine for an all day mission. They are very popular in the UK which has a huge AM riding and racing scene.

 

[timecycle.fr]

if you need a Meta AM or SX it's true, there are two new frames for sale on the forum

Meta SX
http://www.rotorburn.com/forums/sho...2013-Brand-New&p=2661573&posted=1#post2661573

Meta AM
http://www.rotorburn.com/forums/showthread.php?257729-Commencal-Meta-Am-2013-Brand-New

And you can see all the specs, geometry and what technologies Commencal used for building these frames here (Quite well explained I reckon)

Meta SX
http://www.commencal.com.au/meta-sx-platform-technology.html

Meta AM
http://www.commencal.com.au/meta-am-platform-technology.html

 

[nick82]

Thanks for the replies guys, I've ended up ordering a Banshee Rune v2. Cheers. Will post up some pics once I have it.

 

[evObda2]

The new Norco 650B bikes look pretty good. Really liking their new range.

But if its fun your after and a rock solid platform i think you cant really go past a Orange 5 with some 160mm forks. Set it up 1x10, with some decent tyres and you'll have a reliable, super fun bike on any xc/trail/am/mild dh trail out there!
Just google Joe Barnes and see what riding he does on it! (his bike below).

 

[sr201600]

Im is a similar situation to the OP, after something to do Gravity enduro and still go for a ride around the park with the kids. I'm 110kg, should i be looking for something a little more solid built. Have around $2k to spend

 

[schneller schneller]

Specialized pitch pro.(sorry I'm keeping mine)
I highly recommend one, she loves to be abused.
Eats up all steep terrain and handles downhill tracks at the same time.