After the demise of my first ride - Pinky - A Trek Liquid 25, had an opportunity to try out three replacements for full rides - a Trek Fuel EX 8, Santa Cruz Blur LT and Specialized Stumpjumper Elite. Short answer is the Trek was too stiff and did not hold a line going down, Blur flowed like an angel going down, but was a real push to get to the top of the route. The Stumpy was "just right." Climbed like a goat and descended with just as much confidence as the Blur, though not quite as plush. The Stumpy was the hands down winner on all fronts - climbing, descending, components, weight and price was right there given the component set.
First ride on my bike this AM - Sunriver up to Lava Lands Visitor Center, topped off with a ride up to the top of Lava Butte. What a complete screaming joy! After three days of good hard test rides with some pretty good climbs, did not think I would have the legs today, but a combination of excitement and the qualities of the Stumpy went for another 21 miles.
Pictures are "just off the showroom floor" clean and pretty and the bike and I at the top of Lava Butte.
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