I really like my hardtail BUT my joints are tattling on me. I'm giving some thought to buying a FSR mtb. I don't need a lot of travel ( I think) and I thought about the Epic and hopped on one at the lbs. Then I jumped on the Stumpjumper. The Stumpie feels pretty bombproof and roomy in the cockpit. The Epic seems to be more like my Rockhopper in the cockpit and feels more.......feminine.

I'm looking to ride on gravel roads, packed dirt, and occasionally trails with baby heads. I will need a bike that can climb as we have steep hills around here. I won't be riding really technical stuff because I'm too old to heal fast, lol.

I know there are several TE'ers that have a Stumpjumper and I haven't read about anyone with an Epic. Would you care to share your experiences with your bike? Inquiring minds want to know.