Wanted - Hardtail around €1k mark

guym

Hi,
Not sure whether this subject has been done to death, but I'm looking for a hardtail and have around €1k to spend. Probably looking for a medium size, but would also consider small (i'm 5'9"). Bike to be used for singletrack xc (Ballyhoura's). If anyone is looking to offload something in good nick give me a shout. Have been looking online & come across the following bikes, expert opinions much appreciated or if you have come across any other hidden gems on the web please let me know!!
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m1b0s2p2290
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m1b0s2p1686
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=41724
Can't find much info on the Genius bike, but the spec seems good.
Was also thinking along the lines of a Merlin Malt 4 with a fork upgrade to Reba's.
All feedback very welcome.....thanks.
Guy.

stephen03

have a kona kula with deore lx hayes hfx hydraulic discs wtb bars stem and post race face cranks marzoochi gran fondo fork one year old little used size small 16 inch 650euro

ciarsciars

The spec looks excellent on the Genius bike for that money but I think a small is probably too small for someone 5 9".