Originally Posted by clairendave

Callum, Don't think for a second riding a hardtail will be anything like your mates road bike was. I ride both and i hate my road bike unless i am out on smooth open roads. Its a very harsh ride. I ride to work (on my hardtail scott) down a few hardly used/maintained roads. its comfy. Also a full suss for the odd occasion off road will have you wishing for a hardtail after waisting all your energy bobbing up and down whilst riding smooth trails or road. (unless you go for lock out rear, but then the geometry isn't ideal).

your best off going to try some out somewhere.

P.s, don't go overly large on your frame, don't forget you need nut clearence if you have to stop going uphill and have to stand forward. i ride an 19" with 35" inside leg.