Here it is.  In August I was knocked off my bike on my commute home from work, the offending driver failed to stop to exchange details.  After a couple of months of no news from the Met's finest (ha) I decided to ring them only to be told they have closed the case.  Not only that I learn't after asking why they said we explained in the letter.  I got no letter as it turned out they sent it to the wrong address :D .  They promptly faxed me a copy and I discovered the driver had reported it and the police kindly provided me with his insurance details.  Anyway to cut a long story short I have now ot a cheque for £750 from them and will be selling my current bike for £300.  That with a little bit I have to one side Have a budget of approxx £1200-£1300 for a new bike.

This is where the dilemma comes in.  I want a full susepension bike that can do xc and also handle being chucked about a bit.  This type of riding has prob got a name but I dont know what it is.

Been looking at an 07 TREK Fuel EX 8, I have ridden this bike and like it a lot but finding it hard to find in my size.

I have also been warming to the Mongoose Teocali Super (07) thats for £1200.  However not sure if it is xc enough.

Just dont know what to do for the best now.  It is not likely I will be able to afford like this for a long time so have to make the right decision first time.

Any ideas people?

Phil