women's specific: fisher, trek

Looking to spend around $1,000 for new xc hardtail. Any input on any of the following:

Fisher Tassajara GS
Trek 6700 WS
Trek 6500 WS

The research I've been doing points to poss. issues w/ Manitou Axel Elite fork {such as dripping oil}.

Thanks!

Also consider the Specialized Stumpjumper HT. Great bike.

I have that fork on my bike (2005 version, I think) and haven't had any maintenance issues with it.

My hardtail is a Fisher Big Sur GS. Same geometry as the Tassajara, but better components. I got a previous year's model for under $1000. It has served me well, although I recently upgraded (way more $$) to a full-suspension Titus. The Big Sur is a great bike, however!

Linda

I had the Trek 6700 WSD as my first mountain bike a few years back and was pretty happy with how it held up. The fit wasn't great, too cramped, but that's just a personal thing. If WSD fits you well, I had no complaints with the 6700

I have a Trek 8000 WSD which is about 5 years old and I have had absolutely no maintainence issues with any part of it. I am on the 3rd set of tires, but really don't know how many miles that represents. I like the fit (longish legs for my short upper body, short fingers, etc.)

I have the Gary Fisher Genesisters Tassajara - a 2004 model - and I love it. It's a great bike, and has truly met my needs for the past few years as I've learned to mountain bike. I ride it every day to commute on (a less than 2 mile commute) and ride it several times a week on all kinds of terrain, inc. very rocky, and it has held up great. I will probably ride it for a couple more years at least before thinking about a different bike. Every once in a while I wish I had a full suspension, but I have so many great rides on this bike that I can't help but love it. A family member pointed out that in last winter's consumer reports, it was rated the best value xc mtn bike. It's nimble, light enough and responsive, but also quite tough.

Hope this helps! :)

The info. is uber-helpful. Lots to consider ... thank you so much. I love this website.