FS bike suggestions?

[Harley]

I took all your advise and looked tried other models. I really wanted to buy at my LBS, they had a Trek Fuel EX 8, 15.5", matte black, that met my geometry (i didn't really need a WSD) and I bought it Of course they fit it to me.
Yes, it was more then I had wanted to spend, but I LOVE IT. LBS is selling my hybrid Kona for me to defer the cost.
Took my first real ride today with my 9 month old puppy Remington. We both had a great time. I had him at a full run, he runs to the left side of the bike by the rear wheel (gets in a zone). Unless I slow down, then he takes the lead and occasionally tests my braking skills. He doesn't run way out like when we are walking... it's a great workout for both of us.

I love my new ride and my biking buddy.
Downside to a black bike, I'll be washing it after every ride.

I feel like a little kid, can't stop grinning. WHHEEEEE!

[pumpkinpony]

Very nice!

I just bought a Trek EX8 also, but yours must be the 2010 model because mine is the weird root beer color. Wasn't too fond of the color, but it sure rides nice.

[tzvia]

WOO HOO another MTB is born! Many happy dirty miles! My bro has an '09 EX8 and loves it; it's a very good trailbike. He's always riding it and it's been very reliable. He only had to get a tire with more 'bite' up front as he found those Bontrager tires slip a bit too much in sand or in a lean. Looks like 'Biking Buddy' is as happy about your new bike as you are.

I don't have a 'biking buddy', I have a 'couch-buddy', a 12 year old Choc Lab who's hips have seen better days. But we camp and he likes to sit in the dark and stare at the stars, and 4x during the day and watch the hares and ground squirrels run by... The smile is priceless. Sometimes I take him walking on the trails I ride and he gets that 'I'm so happy I could burst' face.