Hi Hobbs,

Sounds like we're in the same boat. I've been searching for the perfect full suspension myself - I want that elusive bike that is light enough for a multi-day race but burly enough to thrown around a bit in the Rockys. After much searching and riding I've decided on the Lush.

In my quest to find the perfect ride, I've tested a Lapierre, a Santa Cruz Blur and the Trek EX 8. I haven't had a chance to ride Giant. The price point is great, but the local Giant dealer won't demo and I'm a stickler for making sure that I love the ride and that the fit is still great after 2 hours on the trail.

I rode the Specialized Saphire downhill in Panorama a couple of years ago. It's a great bike and it handles well. I find Specialized also has good technology and price, but I didn't fall instantly in love with it the way I did with the Trek.

Last week I took out the Trek EX8 and instantly fell in love. Since I'm a chicken, I tend to like a big bike with burly tires, but the Trek "fit". I've never been on anything so nimble. Initially I was concerned that it was not enough bike to handle some of the technical routes and short drops I want to take, but my bike shop guy assures me it will take whatever I throw at it, absent the downhill tracks. Admittedly, the EX is not the new Lush, but I'm hoping the ride will be the same.

I suspect that you'll be thrilled with any of the bikes that you've selected, but get out there and ride them. See what you like the best. Specialized provides test bikes to their dealers and many shops will let you demo (a real demo, not a parking lot test). Good luck and have fun!