Originally Posted by
ColinL
The anthem has typical XC race geometry which will feel a bit like a road bike, but I would suggestthe trance as it will be a more capable trail bike.
Of course, that's just one brand of many to consider.
The Trance is also on my short list too. I noticed that this year it is not available in a 29er only a 27.5 so now wheel size is one more thing to consider. It will take me some time to educate myself on which bikes match up with my needs. So far picking a mountain bike is more complicated than picking a road bike.